SEXUALITY IN MIDDLE ADULTHOOD by Ale Heinz
Human sexuality is an endlessly fascinating topic to approach. Hopefully, it seems that the majority of people do agree that sexuality in adulthood stages is important and sexual behavior affects the overall health and quality of life of adults. It also seems that people of all ages, not only middle adults, may suffer for problems with sexual functioning. According to studies, 50% of the United States’ population may suffer from a sexual problem at some time in their lives (Myskow, 2002).
According to many of my peers’ research on the topic of sexuality, two of the most relevant issues that affect sexuality during middle adulthood are erectile dysfunction (ED) in men and menopause in women. ED is the inability to obtain or maintain an erection; that is, getting it up and keeping it hard, that affect men of all ages (Reinisch, 1990). In one study about ED, 34% of men admitted ED problems, 14% for purely psychological problems, 28 for hormonal imbalance, 25 for medication, 9% neurological problems, and so on (Reinisch, 1990). Therefore, the diagnosis of ED should involve assessment of physical as well as psychological factors.
A study on sexuality mentions two very important factors to overcome ED which are lifestyle changes and medication such as, Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis. Important lifestyle changes include moderate alcohol consumption, stop smoking, regular exercise, and stress management. All these things may help to overcome ED; however, ED is a prevalent condition that must be accurate detected since it may have a very negative impact on men and women. The partner role is important, in a heterosexual relationship, a female partner may develop a sexual dysfunction as well because of her male partner’s dysfunction. Rubio (2009), conducted a study to demonstrate that detection of ED by a woman partner is possible. Rubio demonstrated that the scale completed by a woman (FAME) had higher specificity than the completed by a man (SHIM) (Rubio, 2009).
Regarding menopause, Cutler (2005), concluded that pheromones plays an important role in attracting the opposite sex and the supplement of pheromones in menopause is crucial to increase attractiveness and attention from others as women age, so women in menopause years can surly enjoy a romantic love, a sexual life full of affection and intimacy, a important aspect of well-being.
In conclusion, sexuality, which involves physical intimacy, sexual satisfaction, attractiveness, passion, romance, closeness, and love, is important before, during and after middle age. The secret and the main point should be the constancy, commitment, and gentleness to have and maintain a healthy sexual life in a rewarding relationship.
Aleida Heinz.-
