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By Mark Stibich, PhD | Updated on August 13, 2023
Medically reviewed by Isaac O. Opole, MD, PhD
This article is a repost which originally appeared on verywell health
Edited for content. The opinions expressed in this article may not reflect the opinions of this site’s editors, staff or members.
Key takeaways:
‧ People in their 70s and 80s and beyond can continue to enjoy sex.
‧ Striving for optimal physical and mental health can allow one to continue to enjoy sex in older age.
‧ Issues you cannot resolve on your own should be brought to the attention of a qualified medical professional.
Many people in their 70s and 80s are not only sexually active, but satisfied with their senior sex lives.1 Though the frequency or ability to perform sexually may decline with age due to physiological changes, these don’t necessarily affect how a person experiences or enjoys sex.
Aging-related problems like erectile dysfunction (ED), vaginal dryness, or urinary incontinence can affect sex. But their impact can also be minimized by using medication, managing chronic conditions, seeking individual or couples counseling, and changing sexual practices.2
This article explores the sex lives of adults 65 and over and the problems that can interfere with sex as the body ages. It also discusses the various treatment options and ways to maintain—or even jumpstart—your senior sex life.
Studies suggest that men are almost twice as likely as women to still have sex or masturbate in their later years. A British study found close to 60% of men ages 70 to 80 and 31% of men ages 80 to 90 are still sexually active. In women, those figures drop to 34% and 14%, respectively.3
This lower rate of sexual activity in older women may be due to a lack of opportunity rather than a lack of desire. Research shows that older women are less likely to have partners (due in large part to the fact that they often outlive their partners). This is sometimes referred to as “the partner gap.”1
It is common for men to experience sexual problems after age 40. Reasons include a natural decline in testosterone levels, heart disease, and prostate problems. The inability to achieve or sustain an erection or reach orgasm or ejaculation are common concerns.4
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (ED), formerly known as impotence, is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual penetration and long enough to achieve orgasm.
While ED is more common in older men, aging itself does not cause the problem. ED is related to conditions, sometimes several at once, that directly or indirectly interfere with erections.
Risk factors include high blood pressure, diabetic nerve damage, smoking, obesity, Peyronie’s disease, depression, and even certain medications. An accurate diagnosis is needed to ensure the right treatment.5
ED drugs like Viagra (sildenafil), Levitra (vardenafil), and Cialis (tadalafil) are often the first-line treatments for ED. Lifestyle changes and counseling can also help. For some men, hormonal therapy, penis pumps, and penile implants may be recommended.
Is There a Female Viagra?
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlarged prostate and one of the most common health problems in older males.6 BPH can cause symptoms like difficulty urinating, frequent urination, or waking up in the middle of the night to urinate (nocturia).
On top of this, BPH can cause sexual problems like low libido (low sex drive) and delayed ejaculation (difficulty reaching orgasm).
Among the treatment options, testosterone therapy may help restore libido. There are also certain drugs used off-label that may help with delayed ejaculation, including cabergoline (originally marketed as Dostinex) and Wellbutrin (bupropion).7
Because some BPH medications can also cause sexual dysfunction, a change in the dose may help resolve these concerns.8
More than a third of older women experience sexual problems. These are typically due to menopause, when estrogen levels steeply decline. Hormonal changes can lessen sexual desire and make it harder to become aroused.9
Sexual organs also change as a person gets older. A woman’s vagina will shorten and narrow. The vaginal walls become thinner and less flexible, tearing more easily. Vaginal lubrication decreases, making vaginal intercourse more painful.10
Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder
Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) is diagnosed when an absence of sexual fantasies, thoughts, and desires causes personal distress. It is a problem that is common among many older women.
A medication known as Addyi (flibanserin) is used to treat HSDD in women. It is currently only approved for premenopausal women, but research shows that it can also improve libido in older women as well.11
Vaginal Dryness
Vaginal dryness is uncomfortable and can make sex painful. Over-the-counter (OTC) remedies that can help relieve irritation and itching from vaginal dryness include lubricants such as K-Y Jelly or vaginal suppositories like Replens.
If OTC remedies don’t help, your doctor may prescribe estrogen cream as well as estrogen-containing vaginal rings and vaginal suppositories.
There are also plant-based products, like black cohosh, that have estrogen-like effects. These should be used with caution in women who have had or are at risk of breast cancer.12
Pain With Sex
Painful intercourse is more likely in older women as vaginal tissue tends to thin and tear easily after menopause. Standard treatments for vaginal dryness can often help ease pain during sex.
If that is not effective, prescription drugs like Osphena (ospemifene) and Intrarosa (prasterone) can treat thinning vaginal tissues and help relieve moderate to severe vaginal dryness.12
Pelvic Organ Prolapse
The pelvic floor muscles and tissues hold the bladder, uterus, cervix, vagina, and rectum in place. Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) occurs when the pelvic floor weakens, causing the pelvic organs to drop and bulge (prolapse) in the vagina. This can cause pelvic pain and pressure, pain with sex, and urinary incontinence.13
POP is often treated with pelvic floor physical therapy to strengthen the supporting muscles. In some cases, surgery may be needed.14
Chronic medical conditions become more common as a person ages. Many of these can interfere with an older person’s sex life.
Arthritis and Chronic Pain
Arthritis and other chronic pain conditions are common among older adults and can make sex very difficult. Depending on the cause, doctors may recommend physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), both over-the-counter and prescription, can be taken before sex to help ease the pain. Opioid drugs, while effective as a pain reliever, can cause a drop in testosterone and contribute to ED.15
If the pain only occurs in certain sexual positions, let your partner know and try different positions. Bolstering your bodies with pillows and cushions can also help.
Diabetes
In the United States, almost one-third of adults over 65 have diabetes. Approximately half of these are undiagnosed.16
Diabetes can cause sexual dysfunction in both men and women. This can be due to circulation problems, medication side effects, or nerve damage. Problems include:17
‧ Low libido
‧ Difficulty with arousal
‧ Erectile dysfunction
‧ Painful intercourse
‧ Reduced genital sensation
‧ Urinary tract infections
‧ Yeast infections
The best way to reduce the impact of diabetes is to gain control of your blood sugar. Speak with your doctor if you have difficulty managing your blood sugar, and be sure to mention any sexual health problems you may be having. It’s important for your doctor to know.
Heart Disease
Older age is the greatest risk factor for heart disease.18 Heart disease causes problems as arteries start to narrow and harden (referred to as atherosclerosis). This reduces blood flow throughout the body, including the pelvis and genitals, resulting in sexual dysfunction in both men and women.
Heart disease is one of the leading causes of erectile dysfunction in men. It can also cause women to have difficulty achieving orgasm due to the decreased blood flow to the genitals.
There is no one way to resolve these issues, but there is evidence that statin drugs used to reduce the risk of heart disease can improve erectile dysfunction in some men.19 Some studies suggest that similar approaches may improve sexual function in women with heart disease.20
People with heart disease may also be nervous about sex due to fear of a heart attack. While sexual activity is generally safe, talk to your health provider if you are concerned.21
Obesity
Today, more than 40% of adults over 65 meet the definition of obesity.22 Research shows that women who are obese are more likely to experience sexual dysfunction than non-obese women.23 In addition, obesity increases the odds of erectile dysfunction in men.20
These issues may be directly related to higher rates of diabetes among people who are obese as well as reduced blood circulation due to atherosclerosis.24
Weight loss, achieved with a healthy diet and routine exercise, is considered the best strategy to overcome obesity. It may also improve a person’s self-image and sense of well-being while making sex easier to navigate.
Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control. This becomes more common with age, especially in women.
Incontinence can be embarrassing and make sex awkward. Women who experience stress incontinence may be afraid to orgasm. Extra pressure on the abdomen during intercourse can also cause urinary leakage.
If you have incontinence, empty your bladder before sex. Changing sexual positions can help prevent urinary leakage by avoiding the compression of the bladder. Pelvic floor exercises can also help strengthen the muscles that aid with urine control.
Medications
Some medications used in older adults can cause sexual dysfunction in both men and women. These include:25
‧ Antidepressants
‧ Antihistamines
‧ Chemotherapy
‧ Diuretics (“water pills”)
‧ High blood pressure medicines
‧ Opioid painkillers
If you are having sexual difficulties, let your doctor know and advise them of any drugs you are taking, including over-the-counter, prescription, or recreational.
Lifestyle and mental health issues can also contribute to sexual problems in older adults. These issues can be just as difficult—and sometimes even more difficult—to overcome than physical ones. If you are faced with any of these issues, there are things you can do to turn them around.
Alcohol
For some people, drinking a glass of wine helps them relax and get in the mood. However, too much alcohol can end up impairing sexual function. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, alcohol is the most-used drug among older adults, with 65% of people 65 and older reporting high-risk drinking.26
Alcohol can impair a man’s ability to get an erection, cause premature ejaculation, or delay orgasm.27 In women, too much alcohol can make it difficult to climax.2
Reducing the amount you drink can help, but if you are unable to control your alcohol use, speak to your doctor about treatment options.
Depression
In the United States, between 5% and 10% of adults over 65 are estimated to be depressed.28 This can lead to many health concerns, including sexual dysfunction.29
In people with depression, neurotransmitters—chemical messengers that send signals between the brain and body—are out of balance. This can affect sexual desire, arousal, and orgasm. Ironically, medications used to treat depression can have the same effects.
While the benefits of antidepressants often outweigh the risks, therapy and counseling may offer a reasonable option for those with mild depression.
Stress
Stress can be a contributing factor to sexual dysfunction. Financial worries and health concerns are just some of the common stresses affecting older adults.
To relieve stress (and the effect it has on your sex life), consider stress management techniques like mindful breathing, tai chi, yoga, and meditation. Research shows practicing mindfulness and meditation can ease the effects of stress and improve overall feelings of well-being.30 This alone may help improve sex.
In addition, seek professional assistance from financial advisors, health advocates, and social workers to help better deal with the other stresses in your life.
Relationship Issues
Lack of sexual intimacy is often related to relationship problems. If you are and your partner are not connecting emotionally, it can lessen your desire to be intimate.
On the flip side, studies show that older couples who engage in sexual intercourse with their partner are likely to share a closer relationship. Moreover, closeness to one’s partner has been shown to increase overall well-being.31
While this issue is not unique to older couples, many people find talking to a marriage counselor can help them work through relationship issues and rekindle sexual feelings and attraction.
Self-Image
With age can come weight gain and other body changes that may affect one’s sense of physical attractiveness. Self-consciousness can spill over into the bedroom and affect a person’s confidence during sex.
A 2019 study among older women found that those who were self-conscious about their bodies reported less sexual satisfaction. By contrast, those who had greater self-acceptance of their bodies irrespective of weight or aging-related changes had a more satisfying sex life.32
Self-acceptance is ultimately the key. Working with a therapist, either alone or as a couple, can help you discuss your feelings openly and find a way to embrace a more positive self-image.
The benefits of maintaining your sex life as you age are physical and emotional. Being sexually active is associated with a lower risk of medical conditions and a longer life. It’s also associated with a greater sense of happiness and overall well-being.3
If your sex life has become stagnant and you’d like to rev it back up, here are a few things you can do.
Communicate
Good sex begins with good communication. Couples who have been together a long time often think they know what the other is thinking. But no one is a mind reader.
Talk to your partner about any concerns you have. You may feel as though your mate is no longer attracted to you because sex has become infrequent, when in fact they are experiencing a decline in sexual interest.
In addition, as sex organs change with age, what felt good before may no longer feel good or may even be painful. Be open with your partner about these changes.
Communicating about sex can be challenging at any age, however. If you and your partner struggle to talk about sex, consider seeing a sex therapist.
Redefine Sex
Sex, as you get older, may need to change. But different can still be good, if not better. With an empty nest and possibly retirement, there’s more time and privacy to explore.
Research shows older adults have a broader definition of sexual activity than younger adults.33 In other words, they better understand that there is more to sex than just intercourse. Foreplay on its own can be quite satisfying.
Be creative and willing to try new things.
Rethink Intimacy
Sex isn’t just physical. It’s an emotional expression of intimacy. As you grow older, sexual intimacy changes. What this means to you and your partner may need to be redefined.
Emotional intimacy can be expressed through non-sexual physical touch. Examples of non-sexual physical touch include:
‧ Back rubs
‧ Cuddling
‧ Holding hands
‧ Hugging
‧ Placing your hand on your partner’s shoulder or arm
‧ Playful nudges
‧ Sitting next to each other
‧ Touching feet under the table
Another non-sexual way to build emotional intimacy is spending quality time together. Things you can do:
‧ Go out on dates with other couples.
‧ Look through old photos and reminisce.
‧ Play cards, board games, or word games.
‧ Read aloud to each other.
‧ Play music together.
‧ Travel, explore new places.
‧ Visit with friends or family.
Just Do It
Instead of waiting for the desire to strike, experts recommend that older adults just go for it. This is because sex has physical and emotional benefits. Orgasms release oxytocin, a hormone that induces a state of calm and improves sleep.
Even if you’re not in the mood, having sex can set the stage for more sex in the future. This is especially true for women. Having sex regularly helps increase natural lubrication and vaginal elasticity. It may also improve erections in men.
Older age can lead to sexual problems in different ways. Age alone increases the risk of erectile dysfunction, delayed ejaculation, low libido, vaginal dryness, and pelvic organ prolapse. Medical conditions like arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and incontinence can also directly or indirectly interfere with sex.
Lifestyle and emotional issues that can impair sexual function in all ages can become even more profound in adults 65 years and older. These include stress, depression, negative self-image, relationship problems, and alcohol abuse.
By working with a doctor or therapist, you can overcome many of these concerns and improve not only your quality of life but your sex life as well. Keeping open lines of communication and embracing change as a natural part of life can also help keep your sex life fresh as you approach your later years.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
1. University of Michigan Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation. Let’s talk about sex.
2. National Institute on Aging. Sexuality in later life.
3. Lee DM, Nazroo J, O’Connor DB, Blake M, Pendleton N. Sexual health and well-being among older men and women in England: findings from the English longitudinal study of ageing. Arch Sex Behav. 2015;45(1):133-144. doi:10.1007/s10508-014-0465-1
4. Shigehara K, Kato Y, Iijima M, et al. Risk factors affecting decreased libido among middle-aged to elderly men; Nocturnal voiding is an independent risk factor of decreased libido. Sex Med. 2021 Oct;9(5):100426. doi:10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100426
5. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Symptoms & causes of erectile dysfunction.
6. National Institute on Aging. Prostate problems.
7. Abdel-Hamid IA, Elsaied MA, Mostafa T. The drug treatment of delayed ejaculation. Transl Androl Urol. 2016;5(4):576-591. doi:10.21037/tau.2016.05.05
8. National Cancer Institute. Understanding prostate changes: a health guide for men.
9. Harvard Health Publishing. Yes, you can have better sex in midlife and in the years beyond.
10. Szymański J, Słabuszewska-Jóźwiak A, Jakiel G. Vaginal aging—What we know and what we do not know. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021 May;18(9):4935. doi:10.3390/ijerph18094935
11. Portman DJ, Brown L, Yuan J, Kissling R, Kingsberg SA. Flibanserin in postmenopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder: Results of the PLUMERIA study. J Sex Med. 2017;14(6):834-842. doi:10.1016/j.jsxm.2017.03.258
12. Naumova I, Castelo-Branco C. Current treatment options for postmenopausal vaginal atrophy. Int J Womens Health. 2018;10:387-395. doi:10.2147/IJWH.S158913
13. Department of Health and Human Services: Office on Women’s Health. Pelvic organ prolapse.
14. Duralde ER, Rowen TS. Urinary incontinence and associated female sexual dysfunction. Sex Med Rev. 2017;5(4):470-485. doi:10.1016/j.sxmr.2017.07.001
15. Marudhai S, Patel M, Valaiyaduppu Subas S, et al. Long-term opioids linked to hypogonadism and the role of testosterone supplementation therapy. Cureus. 2020;12(10):e10813. doi:10.7759/cureus.10813
16. Kalvani RR, Golden SH, Cefalu WT. Diabetes and aging: unique considerations and goals of care. Diabetes Care. 2017 Apr;40(4):440–3. doi:10.2337/dci17-0005
17. American Diabetes Association. Sex and diabetes.
18. Steenman M, Lande G. Cardiac aging and heart disease in humans. Biophys Rev. 2017 Apr;9(2):131–7. doi:10.1007/s12551-017-0255-9
19. Kosti JB, Dobrzynski JM. Statins and erectile dysfunction. World J Mens Health. 2019 Jan;37(1):1–3. doi:10.5534/wjmh.180015
20. Nascimento ER, Maia ACO, Pereira V, Soares-Filho G, Nardi AE, Silva AC. Sexual dysfunction and cardiovascular diseases: a systematic review of prevalence. Clinics (Sao Paulo). 2013 Nov;68(11):1462–8. doi:10.6061/clinics/2013(11)13
21. Penn Medicine. Sex and your heart: What to know about intimacy and heart disease.
22. Hales CM, Carroll MD, Fryar CD, Ogden CL. Prevalence of obesity and severe obesity among adults: United States, 2017-2018. NCHS Data Brief. 2020;360.
23. Mozafari M, Khajavikhan J, Jaafarpour M, et al. Association of body weight and female sexual dysfunction: a case control study. Iran Red Crescent Med J. 2015;17(1):e24685. doi:10.5812/ircmj.24685
24. Ho JH, Adam S, Azmi S, et al. Male sexual dysfunction in obesity: the role of sex hormones and small fibre neuropathy. PLoS One. 2019;14(9):e0221992. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0221992
25. Conaglen H, Conaglen J. Drug-induced sexual dysfunction in men and women. Aust Prescr. 2013;36(1):42-45. doi:10.18773/austprescr.2013.021
26. National Institute on Drug Abuse. Substance use in older adults DrugFacts.
27. Prabhakaran DK, Nisha A, Varghese PJ. Prevalence and correlates of sexual dysfunction in male patients with alcohol dependence syndrome: a cross-sectional study. Indian J Psychiatry. 2018;60(1):71-77. doi:10.4103/psychiatry.IndianJPsychiatry_42_17
28. Cheruvu VK, Chiyaka ET. Prevalence of depressive symptoms among older adults who reported medical cost as a barrier to seeking health care: findings from a nationally representative sample. BMC Geriatr. 2019;19(1):192. doi:10.1186/s12877-019-1203-2
29. National Institute of Aging. Depression and older adults.
30. Goyal M, Singh S, Sibinga EM, et al. Meditation programs for psychological stress and well-being: a systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Intern Med. 2014;174(3):357–68. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2013.13018
31. Smith L, Yang L, Veronese N, Soysal P, Stubbs B, Jackson SE. Sexual activity is associated with greater enjoyment of life in older adults. Sex Med. 2019 Mar;7(1):11–8. doi:10.1016/j.esxm.2018.11.001
32. Gillen MM, Markey CH. A review of research linking body image and sexual well-being. Body Image. 2019;31:294-301. doi:10.1016/j.bodyim.2018.12.004
33. Hinchliff S, Tetley J, Lee D, Nazroo J. Older adults’ experiences of sexual difficulties: Qualitative findings from the English longitudinal study on ageing (ELSA). J Sex Res. 2018;55(2):152-163. doi:10.1080/00224499.2016.1269308
By Lindsay Curtis Updated on May 01, 2023
Medically reviewed by Jamin Brahmbhatt, MD
This article is a repost which originally appeared on verywellhealth
Edited for content. The opinions expressed in this article may not reflect the opinions of this site’s editors, staff or members.
Key Points
‧ Moderate doses of caffeine may improve sexual function.
‧ Caffeine consumption can have a positive effect on emotional health.
‧ Caffeine sensitivity usually increases with age.
Coffee before sex may do more than just wake up the brain. Some research suggests that males who drink two to three cups of coffee a day have lower odds of developing erectile dysfunction, possibly because coffee may stimulate blood flow to the penis.
This article explains how coffee affects sexual performance and reproductive health.
In addition to providing a boost of energy, drinking coffee can make sex better in a variety of ways. Coffee is rich in antioxidants, which can protect blood vessels, aid circulation, and possibly improve blood flow to the penis, helping men get and maintain erections.
Erectile Function
Men who drink two to three cups of coffee per day may have an easier time getting and maintaining an erection.
In fact, one study found that men who consumed between 85-170 milligrams of caffeine per day were 42% less likely to experience erectile dysfunction, which is the inability to get or maintain an erection that is firm enough for sexual activity.
Those who consumed between 171-303 milligrams of caffeine a day were 39% less likely to report ED compared to those who didn’t consume caffeine.
This may be due to caffeine relaxing the arteries and smooth muscle in the penis, allowing more blood flow and improving erectile function. It may also be because caffeine intake may boost testosterone levels, and having low levels may contribute to ED. Research shows that men who regularly consume caffeinated coffee have higher levels of testosterone than those who do not consume it.
However, a more recent study found no association between caffeine intake and ED.
ED Prevalence
ED is very common. Though the risk of ED increases with age, young men can also experience the condition. Estimates on the prevalence of ED vary, but it is estimated that one out of every 10 men will experience the condition at some point during their life.
Improved Libido
It’s possible that caffeine can ramp up your sex drive. Caffeine is a stimulant, which is a drug that can increase energy and alertness by speeding up your brain and body. This increased energy may also give your sex drive a boost.
In addition to boosting energy levels, caffeine may also increase testosterone levels in men. Research shows that men who regularly consume caffeinated coffee have higher levels of testosterone than those who do not consume it.
One study found that consuming more than 4 milligrams of coffee prior to exercising boosts testosterone levels in athletes. An older study showed that chewing caffeine gum may elevate testosterone levels by up to 14%.
Caffeine’s possible ability to increase testosterone levels may also boost sex drive, as low levels have been linked with low libido.
However, scientists haven’t published research on the effect of coffee on libido in humans.
Decreased Stress
Caffeine may lower anxiety and elevate mood, which could make a coffee drinker happier and more relaxed during sex.
Researchers believe that caffeine can reduce anxiety by blocking receptors of the chemical adenosine, which can prevent the brain from causing a stress response. However, this may only be the case for low to moderate coffee drinkers. Heavy caffeine intake can actually cause higher anxiety levels.
Though coffee may offer some health benefits, it’s important to drink it in moderation. Too much caffeine can cause a host of unwanted side effects, including:
‧ Anxiety
‧ Jitters
‧ Headache
‧ Insomnia
‧ Increased heart rate
‧ Upset stomach
‧ Dependency
The Food and Drug Administration recommends consuming no more than 400 milligrams (about four to five cups of coffee) per day to avoid side effects.
Caffeine Sensitivity
If you have caffeine sensitivity, even a small amount of caffeine can make you feel unwell. There are varying degrees of caffeine sensitivity: one person may be unaffected, while another won’t be able to sleep hours after consuming it. Caffeine sensitivity tends to increase with age, so you may find you need less coffee as you get older.
Coffee boosts energy levels, improves physical endurance, and increases neurotransmitters associated with elevated mood, which can all serve to help improve your sex life.
However, you don’t need to drink an excessive amount of coffee before sex to enjoy the benefits. One or two cups 45 minutes prior to sexual activity may help improve ED, boost testosterone, and give you the energy you need for a positive sexual experience.
Do Energy Drinks Help Sexual Performance?
While caffeine consumed in coffee is generally well tolerated by most people, energy drinks can have a number of negative effects, and there is no evidence to show that energy drinks can help with sexual performance. In fact, long-term consumption of energy drinks is associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular problems, sleep disorders, dental problems, obesity, and calcium deficiency.
Summary
Coffee may be a natural way to help improve your sex life. More research is needed to say for sure, but it appears that drinking coffee can reduce your chances of erectile dysfunction and increase your libido. Coffee may also reduce anxiety and stress, thus making sex more relaxing and enjoyable.
You don’t need to drink much coffee to benefit from its effects. One or two cups 45 minutes before sex should be enough. Avoid drinking more than four or five cups a day, since excess caffeine can lead to unwanted side effects like insomnia and anxiety.
Though some people do find coffee to be helpful, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider if you have ED or other concerns about your sexual performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does drinking coffee before sex improve testosterone?
Research suggests that coffee may temporarily boost testosterone levels, which may be beneficial before sex. Drinking coffee can also result in the relaxation of the cavernous smooth muscle found in the penis and improve blood supply through penile arteries to enhance blood flow to the penis.
What is the link between coffee and testosterone?
Coffee may help boost testosterone levels in men. One study found that men who consumed caffeine five times a day had higher levels of testosterone than men who did not consume it. Researchers concluded that caffeine may act as an aromatase inhibitor (blocking estrogen), which may boost testosterone production. Another study found that caffeine may improve exercise and training outcomes due to its ability to moderately boost testosterone levels.
Does caffeine improve ED?
Moderate levels of caffeine consumption may help improve erectile dysfunction. Research shows that men who consume between 85-170 milligrams of caffeine are 42% less likely to experience erectile dysfunction compared to those who don’t consume caffeine.
Do the symptoms of caffeine sensitivity increase with age?
Yes, caffeine sensitivity increases with age. Young people metabolize caffeine much more quickly than older adults. One study found that it takes seniors 33% longer to metabolize caffeine compared to younger adults.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Lopez DS, Wang R, Tsilidis KK, et al. Role of caffeine intake on erectile dysfunction in US men: results from NHANES 2001-2004. PLOS ONE. 2015;10(4):e0123547. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0123547
Maggi, M., Rastrelli, G., & Corona, G. (2020). Both comorbidity burden and low testosterone can explain symptoms and signs of testosterone deficiency in men consulting for sexual dysfunction. Asian Journal of Andrology, 22(3), 265. https://doi.org/10.4103/aja.aja_61_19
Wedick NM, Mantzoros CS, Ding EL, et al. The effects of caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee on sex hormone-binding globulin and endogenous sex hormone levels: a randomized controlled trial. Nutr J. 2012;11(1):86. doi:10.1186/1475-2891-11-86
Lopez DS, Liu L, Rimm EB, et al. Coffee intake and incidence of erectile dysfunction. Am J Epidemiol. 2018;187(5):951-959. doi:10.1093/aje/kwx304
Cleveland Clinic. Erectile dysfunction.
Anwar, S., Verma, P., & Dutt, R. (2022). Role of caffeine in inducing anxiety by reducing brain serotonin synthesis blocking adenosine receptors (A1, A2A, A2B, and A3). Current Traditional Medicine, 8(4). https://doi.org/10.2174/2215083808666220321145436
Richards, G., & Smith, A. (2015). Caffeine consumption and self-assessed stress, anxiety, and depression in secondary school children. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 29(12), 1236–1247. https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881115612404
Food and Drug Administration. Spilling the beans: how much caffeine is too much?
Landry TM, Saunders MJ, Akers JD, Womack CJ. Caffeine added to coffee does not alter the acute testosterone response to exercise in resistance trained males. J Sports Med Phys Fitness. 2019;59(9):1435-1441. doi:10.23736/S0022-4707.19.09183-7
Lopez DS, Liu L, Rimm EB, et al. Coffee intake and incidence of erectile dysfunction. Am J Epidemiol. 2018;187(5):951-959. doi:10.1093/aje/kwx304
Beaven CM, Hopkins WG, Hansen KT, Wood MR, Cronin JB, Lowe TE. Dose effect of caffeine on testosterone and cortisol responses to resistance exercise. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2008;18(2):131-141. doi:10.1123/ijsnem.18.2.131
Polasek TM, Patel F, Jensen BP, Sorich MJ, Wiese MD, Doogue MP. Predicted metabolic drug clearance with increasing adult age. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2013;75(4):1019-1028. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2125.2012.04446.x
By Gretchen Reynolds
February 15, 2023 at 4:15 p.m. EST
This article is a repost which originally appeared on The Washington Post
Edited for content. The opinions expressed in this article may not reflect the opinions of this site’s editors, staff or members.
Key Points
‧ Sexual activity counts as physical exercise.
‧ The more fit you are, the further you can engage in vigorous sexual activities without impediments.
‧ Contrary to popular belief, sex before exercise does not negatively affect performance.
Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, the next day or pretty much any day throughout the entirety of a typical year, many couples will be indulging in sexual relations. Some, glancing at their activity trackers or watchers, might idly wonder, so, are we exercising right now?
Curious scientists have wondered, too. Sexual activity is a popular and pleasing way to spend 32.38 minutes (more on that later). But is it physically intense or leisurely? Can it burn as many calories as jogging, or is it more like a mild stroll? Does it spike heart rates? Can it initiate heart attacks? And what if you have a big competition tomorrow? Should you remain chaste tonight?
Given the prevalence of sexual relations — it may be the physical activity least likely to be skipped — the answers matter, and a bevy of recent studies offer preliminary answers, including some surprising new statistics about the typical age of someone who experiences a “sudden cardiovascular arrest” during sexual relations and the extent to which exercise improves sexual function and satisfaction.
But probably the most pressing question about sex and exercise is, “Is sex exercise?”
The answer, in various ways, appears to be yes. In a review article published in the Archives of Sexual Behavior, researchers at the University of Almería and the University of Murcia in Spain gathered every past study they could find that examined the physical exertions involved in coitus.
There weren’t many. As an activity, intercourse is difficult to study, for reasons ranging from politeness to politics. The studies the researchers found involved mainly committed, heterosexual couples, usually married, who often visited a lab for scientific observation of their exertions. On occasion, the coitus took place at the volunteers’ homes. Some of the couples wore heart rate monitors or other trackers. Others were filmed and their movement patterns analyzed. No one was blinded as to whether sex was taking place.
But even with these limitations, patterns emerged, the Spanish researchers found.
Sex counts as moderate exercise
Most obviously, sexual relations sped up the heart and burned through energy. In the studies in which people wore trackers, heart rates averaged between 90 and 130 beats per minute and peaked at anywhere from 145 to 170 bpm. Women’s heart rates tended to be lower than men’s.
The average caloric burn during intercourse also ranged widely, depending on people’s positioning, gender and more ineffable factors, such as whether they were at home or under observation at the lab. In one study, total energy expenditure during a single session of sexual activity reached 130 calories, while in another experiment, it topped out at about 101 calories for men and 69 calories for women.
These measurements indicate that “sexual activity can cause physical demands of moderate or even vigorous intensity,” said José M. Muyor, a professor at the Health Research Centre at the University of Almería, who led the review study.
The numbers are similar to those for a gentle run, except for the heart rate peaks, which rose higher than typical while jogging, and usually during orgasm, which is uncommon then.
As for the length of the sexual episodes, they likewise varied. In young, healthy couples in one study, sex lasted for an average of 32.38 minutes, while it continued for only about 19 minutes in another study among couples with health conditions, such as heart disease.
In all of the studies, duration was considered to start with foreplay and end with the male orgasm. Whether those parameters adequately capture the experience of both partners is disputable, but “we are limited to describing the methods and protocols that each study conducted,” Muyor said.
Can sex stop your heart?
Other researchers recently have been probing whether sex, while briefly invigorating hearts, might also, under certain circumstances, stop them — and not metaphorically.
A noteworthy 2022 study in JAMA Cardiology, for instance, of casualties in London due to sudden cardiac arrest within an hour of sexual relations found that such deaths were reassuringly uncommon.
Of 6,847 fatal sudden cardiac arrests referred to one pathology center in London between 1994 and 2020, only 17 occurred during or almost immediately after intercourse.
But of those 17, six were women, which was unexpected, and most were relatively young. The mean age was 38.
Similarly, a 2018 study in Paris of people who survived sudden cardiac arrests between 2011 and 2016 found that about 0.6 percent, or 17 in total, all of them men and most in their 50s, went into cardiac arrest during or soon after sex. By comparison, 229 of the other cases occurred during sports or other exercise, and 2,782 in other situations.
Interestingly, resuscitation attempts on the men who became afflicted during or soon after sex tended to begin later than in the other situations, perhaps because of partners’ disbelief or “some degree of embarrassment,” said Eloi Marijon, a professor of cardiology at Paris University and co-author of the study.
“We do not have the marital status of the partners,” he added.
But the primary finding of his and other research in this area is that cardiac arrests during or due to sex remain vanishingly rare, he said. And the more someone engages in intercourse, the more the risks drop.
“During any physical activity,” he said, including sex, “the risk of cardiac arrest is higher than at rest.” But hearts, like other muscles, strengthen and grow more resistant to arrest the more people exert themselves, including with sex. “Sexual activity,” he said, “should not be seen as a riskful situation.”
Sex does not weaken legs
It also is unlikely to compromise tomorrow’s competition or workout, despite widespread myths to the contrary. (“Women weaken legs,” Rocky’s trainer warned him in the 1976 film.)
A 2022 review published in Scientific Reports concluded that “sexual activity within 30 [minutes] to 24 [hours] before exercise does not appear to affect aerobic fitness, musculoskeletal endurance or strength/power.”
The review, which pooled data from nine studies, involving 133 people, almost all male, who had sex in the hours before some type of physical test, also found that coitus did not improve physical performance.
Sex, in other words, was a wash, which is perhaps comforting both for people who are and those who are not sexually active.
“I would say there is no reason to avoid or promote sex before a race or sexual competition,” said Gerald Zavorsky, an incoming professor of physiology and membrane biology at the University of California at Davis, who led the review.
Of course, thinking about sex solely as a competitive tool or even just as another form of moderate exercise is to risk diminishing some of its poetic mystery and intimacy.
On the other hand, if you should choose at any time to think about exercise as a way to improve sex, that would seem to be fine. In a 2019 study of more than 6,000 men and women, the more people exercised, the less likely they were to report erectile dysfunction, among the men, and sexual dysfunction, among the women.
Big Al, of MaleEnhancementCoach.com, answers questions about sex/edging after training and hanging too heavy.
If you have questions you’d like answered in an Ask the Experts article, please PM Big Al
Al: If you’re referring to male enhancement training- and you have no negative issues like performance anxiety or low EQ, then sex after training can be a great way to finish off your workout. This also applies to manual edging- e.g.: Stop and Starts.
…but I haven’t seen any growth in months. What is it I’m doing wrong?
Al: It needs to be understood that training using enlargement specific exercises isn’t quite like other forms of bodily training. The exercises, reps, etc. are all incidental to quality tissue stretch.
It’s best to think of your enlargement training as something more akin to flexibility training than resistance training. Working up to 15 lbs of weight is only good if it’s a byproduct of growth, meaning the routine you performed yielded gains so you added more weight.
Did you make gains earlier in your routine?
and the workouts were more enjoyable. I’m also sore after each workout. This is probably not a good sign?
Al: This is not a good sign! You shouldn’t be feeling anything more than a mild soreness which dissipates in 24 hours or less.
You’d be well advised to go back to a lighter weight and do your best to focus on what you’re feeling with your hanging. Taking mental focus out of the equation with passive forms of training like hanging is easy, so really doing what you can to ensure quality maximum tissue stretch each session without pain or strain should be the goal.
You’ll know you’re on the right track when your penis appears elongated without being exhausted after your sessions, and (of course) by observing growth- which should be noted once every two weeks when you measure.
Your gains will also be greatly accelerated if you’re improving EQ as well.
With the holidays approaching, stress levels are on the rise. One of the most common stressors for this time of year is — MONEY!
Gifts and travel and entertaining and eating out… well, it all adds up to a lot of money being spent, and even if you’re doing well with your budget, just this uptick in spending can be stressful.
This stress can make you more irritable and can even negatively impact your relationship with your significant other. Stress and anxiety are also a leading factor in erectile dysfunction!
Check out my list of 7 productive things you can do, instead of spending money.
Go for a walk – by yourself, with your partner, or with your favorite 4-legged friend. Even in the winter time, even in the snow, check out the beauty around you. Snow on the ground – or even just the stark contrast of a leafless tree against a gray sky. If you’re with your partner – hold hands. If you’re alone – put in some headphones with your favorite music playing.
And Rock n’ Roll
Often times in life the things that are most thrilling are often the worst for you. For example, a
triple decker cheeseburger with bacon, fries, and a milkshake all sound pretty delicious.
Unfortunately, eating all of that is kind of like sticking a fork into an electrical outlet. It probably
won’t hurt you, unless you keep doing it. Thankfully, there is one thing that is both thrilling, and
good for you, sex!
You heard that right. According to several different medical studies, routine safe sex can be very beneficial to your health. Now of course all things in moderation, and the conditions around the
sex you are having has a lot to do with its impact on your health. Done safely and properly, sex
can substantially increase your overall health.
Here is a list of some of the surprising health benefits of sex:
Keeps Up Your Immune System – Believe it or not, regular sex can help prevent you from
getting sick. According to Yvonne Fulbright, a PhD sexual health expert, “sexually active people
take fewer sick days”. Those who have sex regularly also tended to have a higher antibody
count in their system, making them more resilient to illnesses. Long story short, some hanky
panky can help keep the sniffles away, as long as you are using protection that is.
Improve Your Libido – We have all heard the expression, use it or lose it. This applies to sex
too. Regular sexual practice not only makes you better at it, remarkably it gives you a better sex
drive as well. According to Lauren Streicher, an MD, women who have sex regularly have better
blood flow, more vaginal lubrication, and better elasticity. Regular sex can make you better at it,
and make you want to have it more frequently.
Lowers Blood Pressure – New studies have suggested a correlation between lower blood
pressure and an active sex live. Talk about letting off steam. It seems regular sex quite literally
relieves tension in the body. Healthy sexual practices are important, and it seems that more
people are engaging in better sex habits all the time. For example, it has been found that sex
and drug usage has lessened among teens. This is good in many ways, but if young adults practice
safe sex, it could improve their health as well. It is interesting to note in these studies it was
found that sexual intercourse itself and not masturbation caused lower blood pressure levels.
Lowers Risk of Heart Attacks – More good news. It turns out that a healthy sex life is great for
your heart. Sex helps to stimulate the heart, counting as a form of exercise. Sex also helps to
keep estrogen and testosterone levels balanced. If either of these hormones starts to get low,
problems like osteoporosis and heart disease. One study found that men who have sex at least
twice a week were half as likely to die from a form of heart disease.
Let’s be honest guys, the female sexual anatomy is a weird (and awesome!) mystery. Male sexual anatomy is so much more straight forward (at least externally). You have the penis and the testicles – maybe some foreskin. Everything’s just out there in front – easy to access – easy to see – usually easy to please.
But, women… we tuck our fun bits underneath. We have weird inner labia and outer labia, and that oh-so-elusive…
CLITORIS!
Even if you’ve had lots of sexual partners, that little nub of pleasure can be as hard to find sometimes as a unicorn in a field of 4-leaf clovers! So, let’s take a look at some basic outer female sexual anatomy, and specifically talk about the clitoris.
Female sexual anatomy usually includes the vulva (the outer “fun parts”) and the reproductive system (the inner “working parts”). The inner working parts, like the ovaries, the Fallopian tubes, and more are all very important to sexual health, but in this post, let’s focus on the vulva.
First, let’s clear up one really common misconception. That whole outer female sex area down there… NOT the vagina. It’s actually called the vulva.
The vagina is the flattened tube that connects the outer world with the cervix, which leads to the uterus. So, when someone is talking about the vagina, they (shouldn’t) don’t mean the whole funland area down there – they (should be) are talking about specifically that tube inside the body.
OK, with that straightened out, let’s look at the parts of the vulva. (the outer sexual anatomy bits). The vulva includes:
So, if this little tiny body part is so pleasurable why in the world is it so hard for men to find? You’d think God (or whatever method of creation you believe in) would’ve put a big arrow on this thing. TOUCH HERE! That way men would be able to find it easier and women would want to have sex more often, since 75% of women need clitoral stimulation to orgasm!
Read that again guys… 75% of women need clitoral stimulation to orgasm!
Needless to say – finding and successfully stimulating the clit should be PRIORITY #1 (or at least at the top of your sexual to do list). Check out these drawings below, to start to “see” where you should begin your clitoral treasure hunt.
If you’re looking for more information on the female body, be sure to check out the posts below. An educated lover is a better lover! 😀
A Little Bit About Female Anatomy: AKA How Big is the Vagina?
Big Al, of MaleEnhancementCoach.com, answers a question about the mental aspect of sex & coffee and erections, in this Ask the Experts article.
If you have questions you’d like answered in an Ask the Experts article, please PM Kimberly at forum name – KMWylie – and she’ll have the experts here on PEGym get your questions answered.
…are the ones which interest me the most! I feel like I’m weak minded when it comes to sex. I can get it up but it’s hard for me to enjoy it fully because I’m always worried about my performance. When I get a chance to have sex with a really attractive woman is when it’s worst for me! I wish I could go back to the days where sex was done like on instinct the way animals do it. That way us men wouldn’t have to deal with all of this pressure!
Big Al: The human mind has a very large range. On the low end of the emotional spectrum we can wallow in fear and self-loathing. As we rise through the emotional spectrum we ascend through the emotions of courage, reason, and peace/proficiency. The path to the higher emotional states comes through utilizing your mind and by mastering yourself. You alluded to performing at the level of animality. As a man, you can develop yourself to go far above what you’ve be able to do without proper training and conditioning. If you automatically see yourself as weak and leave yourself to the mercy of your lower mind, it’ll be difficult for you to improve your situation. Focus on developing your courage and make the attempt at being objective about your performance and you’ll be able to condition yourself through training and by confidently undertaking real life experiences.
… I find when I drink a large coffee I get jittery and tend to turtle pretty hard.
Big Al: Your reaction would depend on your tolerance to caffeine.
Small doses of caffeine may actually have a beneficial effect on erections. When excess is consumed and side effects like jitteriness is observed, vasoconstriction is induced. This can have a negative effect on erections.
The following article (with references) may be of interest to you: “Drinking Coffee Could Help Prevent Erectile Dysfunction” http://thebiohacker.com/articles