It seems like we talk alot about sex, sexual desires, and even sex positions – but what about sexual health? This is an important topic that should be discussed constantly, at every stage of life. The reality is that sexual health, and the relevant topics to it, change with age, and it’s our duty to stay proactive and informed about the topics that matter. We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to understanding sexual health across your lifespan, from adolescence, adulthood, and to aging. Covering important topics such as puberty and sexual activity in adulthood, as well as how to maintain intimacy in older age, are something we realize many don’t focus on. It’s important to have a resource for understanding the complexities of sexual health in each stage of life and gain insight on how to make informed decisions about sexual activity.
Puberty and Sexual Development- What Happens?
Puberty is one of the largest stepping stones in a person’s life, and puberty is the first step of the transition from childhood to adulthood. This time is an important period in life where a lot of physical, emotional, and other changes are experienced. These changes include the beginning of sexual desire and feelings, and may even be a time where you begin to question your sexual attraction towards other genders.

Once you hit puberty, your body will undergo a series of changes, both internally and externally. Hormones such as estrogen and testosterone surge through the body, causing the development of physical sexual characteristics like breast growth in girls and facial hair in boys. Often, both genders will experience anger, emotional highs and lows, and even acne! This can make you feel stressed, frustrated, and confused. It also marks the beginning of menstrual cycles for girls, which can be painful and embarrassing. These changes are sometimes accompanied by feelings of confusion and self-consciousness, as many are not prepared for these changes to begin, and struggle to navigate their evolving bodies and newfound sexual feelings.
As adults, we can help those going through puberty by having more awareness and understanding towards the changes that occur, and we are able to help develop healthy attitudes and feelings towards the developing sexuality that is experienced. It’s really key to be able to have open and honest communication about topics such as consent, safe sex, and sexual orientation – no one should feel self conscious or embarrassed of what they are going through! We’ve all been there at some point in our lives. As the age for sexual activity gets earlier, talking about these topics rather than pretending they don’t exist, can help those going through puberty navigate their sexual development and make informed choices without feeling ashamed or like they have to keep secrets from us. This helps prevent bad decisions that can affect their lives in the long term.
As parents, caregivers, and educators, we play a crucial role in supporting and shaping the younger generation through this stage, and we have to step up to the plate. We have to be able to create and foster a safe and non-judgmental environment, where questions can be asked and concerns can be addressed. By having the knowledge to provide accurate and age-appropriate information about puberty and sexual development, we can empower the younger generation to make informed decisions and prioritize their sexual health.
Sexual Activity in Adulthood
In adulthood, sexual activity is expected, and is a normal, natural, and healthy activity to partake in. Regardless of religious or cultural beliefs, the reality is that sex happens. As we navigate through our adult years, our sexual desires, experiences, and preferences may continue to evolve. It is important to keep in mind that everyone’s journey is unique, and there is no “right” or “wrong” way to approach sexual activity in adulthood. Something that one person may love, another person may despise – and vice versa! It’s ok to experiment, and it’s ok to not want to experiment at all.
Consent and communication will always be crucial components of sexual activity, regardless of what age range you are in. Maintaining open and honest conversations with your partners is key to establishing boundaries, expressing desires, and ensuring that both of you are comfortable and enthusiastic about any sexual activities can prevent misunderstanding and shameful feelings. It also ensures that no one feels pressured, and everyone has a fair chance to express themselves. Building trust and intimacy through effective communication will completely change the overall sexual experience for you and your partner.
During adulthood, many people begin to experiment with different toys and trying out various techniques, which can help keep things exciting and fulfilling in the bedroom. From trying new positions, to incorporating sex toys or engaging in role play, the possibilities are endless. Of course, you have to remember that consent and mutual enjoyment should always be the guiding principles, and never pressure or feel pressured to do things you may feel apprehensive about. The moment you feel pressured is the moment that you are not doing the right thing for yourself.
Physical and emotional changes may occur throughout adulthood that can impact sexual activity. These issues can vary, from erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, or even STI’s. These are common and can be addressed with medical assistance and open discussions with healthcare providers. It’s imperative to foster healthy communication not only with our partners, but also with our healthcare providers, to ensure we don’t avoid treating things that are easy to deal with. Embarrassment should not hold you back!
At the end of the day, sexual activity during adulthood (and really any time) should be a pleasurable and satisfying experience that is comfortable and unique to each individual’s desires and preferences. Maintaining an open-minded, adaptable, and willingness to explore can lead to a fulfilling and enjoyable sex life well into adulthood.

Maintaining Intimacy in Older Age
Intimacy in older age is an important aspect of overall sexual health and well-being – but it often gets overlooked, as we feel embarrassed by the changes our bodies are going through. As we age, our bodies go through natural changes that can impact sexual desire, physical abilities, and sexual function – but these are a part of life, and shouldn’t hold you back from pleasure. Intimacy and sexual pleasure does not have to decline or disappear completely. In fact, many people report that their sex lives actually improve with age, as they become more confident in their bodies and more aware and intune to their desires.
Communication is key in maintaining intimacy as you age and your body changes.There is no reason for us not to be able to have open and honest conversations with our partners. These conversations can include our needs, desires, and things that make you feel not ok. These conversations can help both partners feel more understood and supported, and will certainly lead to a more fulfilling sexual relationship. When you’re hiding issues or concerns, you’ll always be holding back in bed! Holding back in bed will translate to holding back in your relationship in other ways, and ultimately have negative effects on you and your partner’s bond.
There is no reason to stop experimenting with different techniques and finding new ways to pleasure each other, even as you age. This can include exploring new techniques, trying different positions, or incorporating more sensual activities such as massages or touch. Sometimes, you may find that you need to add lube, or cock rings, depending on what you are experiencing in bed. There is nothing wrong or shameful about this, and open communication with your partner will allow you to work through this if it happens. It’s normal!
As we age, it is important to prioritize self-care and overall health in order to maintain not only our sexual health, but also maintain and improve our physical and mental health. This may include practicing and implementing a better diet, changing your workout routine, and addressing any chronic or underlying health conditions. Taking care of your mental and emotional well-being is extremely important, as stress, anxiety, and depression can impact sexual desire and function, as well as satisfaction within your relationship as a whole.
You have to remember that maintaining intimacy as you age is about embracing the changes you’re going through, adapting to new needs, and finding what works best for you and your partner. As long as you maintain open communication, a willingness to explore, and a focus on overall health and well-being, you can continue to experience satisfying and fulfilling sexual activity throughout your life.
0 Comments