How to lead a healthy sexual life at every age

This #SexualHealthMonth, we are spilling the beans about everything you need to know for a healthy (and fulfilling) sexual life in your teens, 20s, 30s, 40s and beyond

Fact: Your sexual drive will change according to your body’s needs and capabilities at every age. Another important fact? Sex is not just a young people thing. The period of sexual discovery is one that starts in your teens during puberty and continues for the rest of your life. While it is essential to discover what makes you feel good in bed, it is also necessary to pay attention to your body’s needs across different time periods of your life. Here is an easy chart to decode sexual healthcare across different life situations and relationship changes.

Sexual health in your teens: Experimentation and exploration

With the onset of puberty, a whole new world of sexual desires is opened up for teens. Remember that this is the best period of self-exploration that will set the tone for the rest of your active sexual life. Invest some time in finding out what you like and dislike in bed as well as what gives you pleasure. A healthy base of understanding about your sexual needs will lay the foundation for a fulfilling sex life for the rest of your years. While it might seem tempting to try everything at once, it pays to bear in mind the essentials of safe sex and to ensure that you are stayign protected against any sexually transmissible infections.

Sexual health in your 20s: C is for contraception

Once you cross the threshold into your 20s and embark on your professional life, it is time to put all your learnings to use with the partners you choose to take to bed. However, it is also essential to have an honest conversation with yourself about where you stand with regards to conceiving. With more women choosing to have children in their 30s, it becomes necessary to opt for an adequate contraception plan with your doctor, tailored to what suits your needs the best. Discuss your options and finalise something that works for your lifestyle.

Sexual health in your 30s: Fertility planning

Having settled in your professional life by now, many women feel that they are ready to devote time to family planning in their 30s. The focus of your sexual drive will now change towards fertility planning but before you get started, it is essential to have an honest conversation with your partner to ensure that both of you are on the same page. You will also need to remember that childbirth can take its toll on your sex life as well. Don’t push yourself too hard to get back on the horse and take care of your needs first before you try to satisfy someone else. And don’t forget to factor in child control in between two pregnancies as well.

Sexual health in your 40s: Period of rediscovery

With the onset of menopause, hormones can play a major role in your sexual drive. It is also said that women can experience their mythical sexual peak during these years. However, experts believe that this might be more related to the fact that adult children require less looking after, leaving you with more time to spend on yourself. While it might seem like your child-bearing years are behind you, it is necessary to continue precautions and continue your chosen method of contraception for two years after the date of your last period.

Sexual health in your 50s and beyond: Keeping the spark alive

Who says that sex is only fun when you are young? It is a myth that libido decreases with age, so don’t allow any mental blocks to stop yourself from enjoying yourself to the fullest. It is, however, true that the aftereffects of menopause can cause vaginal dryness, among other concerns. Lubrication is key to a pleasurable sex life in your 50s and beyond, while pelvic exercises can also help ease any pain down there. With lesser responsibilities on your shoulders as you age, so don’t forget to place the focus back on sex for pleasure.

Your sexual drive is bound to change as you age, but that is nothing to be afraid of. Remember to have an honest, open channel of communication with your partner and together, you’ll can work on ensuring that every time is as memorable as the first time. As a rule of thumb, it helps to keep in mind a few crucial commandments for a healthy, fulfilling sexual life… regardless of your age.

Do: Speak with your partner about all aspects of intimacy

Do Not: Allow adult responsibilities and stress to keep you from communicating what you want in bed

Do: Eat foods that can boost your sexual performance, such as citrus, nuts and seafood

Do Not: Ignore the impact of excessive alcohol consumption on your sexual health

Do: Keep yourself physically fit and healthy with a regular exercise plan

Do Not: Forget to take care of your mental health as well for a fulfilling sex life

Do: Remember to stay protected and adhere to the basics of saef sex at every single age

Do Not: Skip your regular screening tests and consult your physician for a birth control plan