Women’s Sexual Health and Aging: A Conversation Worth Having
Apr 30, 2025 ● By Jerry Garcia, PA-C, and Raymond Wohl, BA, MA
Photo courtesy of Chicago Male Clinic
As women age, sexual health and wellness remain important aspects of overall well-being, yet they are often overlooked in medical conversations. While sexual desire can decline, many older women still consider sex a meaningful part of life, often linked to emotional intimacy and connection with a partner.
However, the realities of aging can pose challenges. Older women are less likely than men to have a partner, and many partners may face sexual difficulties such as erectile dysfunction. These factors, combined with changes in a woman’s own body, can affect sexual satisfaction. According to an article published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society (January 2018), “One common condition is genitourinary syndrome of menopause, also known as vulvovaginal atrophy,” which can cause dryness, discomfort and pain during sex. Issues with orgasm are also more common in women whose partners experience sexual problems.
Despite these concerns, up to half of sexually active older women report distressing sexual problems, yet very few discuss them with their doctor. When such conversations do occur, they are often initiated by the patient—not the physician. This lack of open dialogue can lead to untreated conditions and missed opportunities for improved quality of life.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are also a growing concern among older adults, highlighting the need for ongoing awareness, screening and protection, regardless of age.
Healthcare providers can play a critical role by routinely asking older women about their sexual health and offering appropriate support. Effective interventions include treating vulvovaginal atrophy, offering guidance for managing chronic health conditions that affect sexual function, and addressing STI prevention and treatment.
Staying informed and proactive about sexual health is essential at every stage of life. Women deserve compassionate, comprehensive care that includes honest conversations about sexual well-being.
Jerry Garcia is the medical director and Raymond Wohl is the patient care coordinator of Chicago Male Clinic, a holistic health and wellness center for men located at 4801 W. Peterson Ave., Ste. 506, in Chicago. For more information or to make an appointment, call 773-414-9900 or visit ChicagoMaleClinic.com.