Different for girls?

Intriguingly there is some evidence that women stay interested in sex for longer than men, a trend that has been dubbed the 'Joan Collins syndrome'.

Many women find that their feelings about sex change during or after the menopause. This is the stage in a woman's life when levels of the hormone oestrogen drastically reduce, she stops having regular monthly periods and can no longer conceive and have a baby. It usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55.

For some the relief of no longer having to worry about getting pregnant can lead to more relaxed feelings towards sex. Others can feel that fertility is what made them sexual or attractive in the first place and so can lose confidence. 

The wide range of physical and emotional symptoms that can accompany the menopause can affect how women feel about their bodies and their desire to have sex, for more information on these symptoms take a look at our section on the menopause.

Physical changes

The changes in hormone levels that come with the menopause can actually increase women's sex drive and there is evidence that interest in sex remains high amongst older women. 

There are also physical changes: the vagina becomes narrower and shorter, with thinner, but stiffer walls that produce less automatic lubrication. This can make sex more difficult, or even painful, and is something your partner needs to understand. Taking things more slowly to allow your body time to produce natural lubricants is one idea, or you can buy a water-based lubricant from the chemist.

Women may find that they take longer to become aroused and that orgasms appear to be less intense. This is because there are fewer uterine and vaginal contractions.