Relationship issues 

Tension and emotional distance can undermine a couple's sex life. Conflicts having nothing to do with sex, like finances or child-raising issues, can be at the root of a sexual problem. It works the other way, too: a sexual issue can strain a couple's ability to get along. 

Performance anxiety 

A person may become so worried about sexual performance that sex is no longer enjoyable — or even possible. Performance anxiety becomes more common for both men and women as they move into their 50s. 

The physical transformations the body undergoes with age have a major influence on  sexuality. 

Body image and self-esteem 

There are plenty of things that can make a person feel less than sexy. Gravity is not kind to the body as it ages. Childbirth, a poor diet, weight gain, or thinning hair can also leave a person feeling less than desirable. Such feelings can get in the way of a sense of closeness or inspired lovemaking — and can inhibit a person from initiating or responding to sexual advances.

Expectations and past experiences 

Your sexuality is a natural drive that's with you from birth, but your family, culture, religious background, the media, and your peers shape your attitudes toward sex. For some people, this history supports a healthy enjoyment of sex. For others, it complicates sexual relationships..

Stress and lifestyle changes 

Stress and fatigue can quickly sap your sex drive. Stress can hit from any direction — challenging children, financial worries, aging parents, health concerns, career woes, and more. An overload of competing demands may keep you and your partner from nurturing many aspects of your relationship, sexual and otherwise. 

For specific, personalized medical advice we encourage you to contact us at Wellbeing Center.