An epidemic of sexual dysfunction has hit the country, claiming the attention of both laypeople and professionals alike. Even more disturbing is the fact that many of those affected don’t seem to know why they’re experiencing such problems. The problem is known as “Late Midlife Crisis,” and it basically refers to men and women who are suddenly plagued with sexual problems well after their initial sexual prime. While there’s no specific cause for LMC, a number of factors can contribute to it including, but certainly not limited to:
Physical Changes
As men and women approach middle age, their bodies undergo numerous changes which can affect their sex lives. Hormones become less effective in some cases and they can even act in the opposite way in others. This is why it’s so important to keep an open mind when it comes to discussing sex changes with your doctor. If he or she prescribes you a medication for ED, they may also suggest that you try a different medication or treatment plan for your libido issues. Your doctor may also prescribe you a testosterone patch or injection which can really boost your sexual function.
Personal History
It’s important to remember that everyone’s mental and physical makeup is different, which means a person’s sex drive can vary from one extreme to the other. Some individuals may even have experienced some sort of sexual trauma which can leave a lasting impact on their libido. If you’re wondering about your own personal history, try to remember what happened to you when you were a kid and if there are any particularly distressing events you might want to discuss with your doctor. The truth is it’s never easy to discuss sex, even with your doctor, but it’s important to remember that they’re there to help you if you ever need them.
Societal Changes
The world is changing and so are most people’s ideas about sex. For instance, previous generations would never have considered that people in their 40s, 50s and 60s could have such problems. Thanks to social media and the advent of the #MeToo movement, more people are becoming open about these issues and seeking help for them. If you’re experiencing any sort of sexual problem, whether you’re just coming out of your sexual prime or well after it, it’s important to remember that there are people out there who can help you. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your local mental health professional or sex therapist for assistance.
Stress
We all get stressed out from time to time, but chronic stress can be quite the erosive force. If you’re finding that your sex drive is decreasing rather than increasing even though you have plenty of time to have a bedroom romp, it might be because you’re constantly fatigued and unable to fully relax. Try to remember that there are more ways to have sex than just one or two options that you might be used to. Take a look at the kinks and fetishes that your partner might be able to help you explore. There are so many ways to engage in sexual activity that you might find that it’s easier to keep your mind engaged in erotic fantasies than it is to focus on reality. When you’re feeling particularly stressed, it might be helpful to take a break from your busy day and try to relax in a manner that promotes both mental and physical well-being. A warm bath, a cold shower, or a sauna all have the potential to be therapeutic as well as fun. Try anything that helps you relax and be sure to tell your doctor about any changes in your libido so that he or she can be aware of it.
Medications
There are numerous medications which have the potential to boost your libido. Some of the more popular ones include:
- Duloxetine
- Mirapex
- Sildenafil (Also known as Viagra, Propecia, and Cialis)
- Buspirone
- Melatonin
If none of these options seem to be able to help you, don’t be afraid to try another one. Your doctor can prescribe you different medications for your issue depending on your physical condition and which one(s) seem to be the most effective for your specific case. Keep in mind that it’s not always easy to determine the root cause of your problem so it may take some trial and error to find the right medication or combination of medications for you.
Changes In Temperament
Your sexual function can be greatly affected by your overall temperament and how you deal with stress. If you have a history of depression or anxiety disorders, your odds of experiencing problems with your libido are greatly increased. These are some of the most common causes of LMC and it’s important to remember that they can be treated. If you’re feeling down or anxious, try to remember that there are more enjoyable ways to experience life than just with your mind in the gutter. You can take a walk, go on a bike ride, read a book, or call a friend to relieve some of the stress. While you should certainly be aware of your own mental and physical health, it’s equally as important to remember that there are other contributing factors to your sexual problems which you may not be aware of. Keep your doctor informed of any changes in your temperament so that he or she can be aware of what’s going on.
As you can see, there are a number of things which can affect your libido. If none of these factors seem to be causing your problem, it may simply be time for you to try a different approach. Do you have any advice or suggestions for people in the midst of a similar predicament? Please feel free to share your experiences in the comments section below!