Physical changes in aging adults

What kind of physical intimacy difficulties can occur with aging?

The changing and aging process of our intimate areas can cause several health issues and aesthetic problems thus can cause some lifestyle changes. Starting form the age of mid-twenties the amount of collagen-, elastin- and hyaluronic acid decreases – these molecules have an important role in keeping the skin even, firm and soft. Eventually this process is responsible for developing loose, visibly saggy skin all over the body – including the private parts.

The labias may become more pigmented with age, getting a darker appearance. The skin is more prone to dryness, loses its natural elasticity which is enhanced by the menopause-related decreased oestrogen level.

A lot of women suffer from the consequences of the size-, shape- and appearance transformation of their labias. The enlargement of the labia minora can make wearing underwear and bathing  suits uncomfortable or make doing some exercises (running, cycling, riding a horse) and even sitting painful or unbearable. These activities may irritate or harm the skin of the genitals and have a negative effect on sexual life.

Beside genetic factors, aging, giving birth and other traumatic events can weaken the pelvic floor muscles, and loosen or stretch out the connective tissue layers. Therefore it’s common to develop incontinence and problems with sexual health. The sinking and prolapse of the pelvic organs occur because of the weakened pelvic muscles.

Incontinence means that the sphincter muscle cannot close properly and urine leaks out unintentionally. It’s extremely important to start a treatment as soon as possible because of its adverse effect on life quality and also the increased risk of health problems.

Excess fat over the pubic area is also a common problem which appears as an enlarged Venus mound. The condition is caused by an accumulation of adipose tissue and makes usual everyday activities (e.g. dressing up, working out) difficult as a negative consequence.

Dryness may be a sign of vaginal atrophy which is really important to diagnose and treat in favor of having a complete, healthy life. The symptoms can occur regardless of age and it’s common to develop some of them as a side effect of a medication, but mostly the syndrome is formed by accompanying menopause. Vaginal dryness is usually the consequence of a decreased oestrogen level when the regional musoca thickens, atrophies and its mucus production ability deteriorates significantly. Because of the decreased work of mucosal glands the vaginal wall dries out and becomes itchy which makes sexual life unpleasant and painful. The imbalance of this area creates a higher risk for bacterial and fungal infections and makes the skin prone to irritations.

Several decades ago intimate rejuvenation was not possible and women needed to accept that their time had passed and needed to get used to their changed bodies. However for now several techniques were invented in favor of renewing the labias and the pubic mound and tightening the vaginal muscles. These methods help to eliminate problems like urinary incontinence and mucosal dryness, while also greatly improving low self-esteem and boosting confidence.