older people’s health issues
Changes in the Body With Aging
Reproductive Organs
(See also Effects of Aging on the Female Reproductive System .) The effects of aging on sex hormone levels are more obvious in women than in men. In women, most of these effects are related to Menopause , when the levels of female hormones (particularly estrogen) decrease dramatically, menstrual periods end permanently, and pregnancy is no longer possible. The decrease in female hormone levels causes the ovaries and uterus to shrink. The tissues of the vagina become thinner, drier, and less elastic (a condition called atrophic vaginitis). In severe cases, these changes can lead to itching, bleeding, pain during intercourse, and a need to urinate immediately ( The breasts become less firm and more fibrous, and they tend to sag. These changes make finding lumps in the breasts more difficult. Because the breasts change with aging, finding lumps that could be cancer may be harder. Some of the changes that begin at menopause (such as lower hormone levels and vaginal dryness) may interfere with sexual activity. However, for most women, aging does not greatly detract from enjoyment of sexual activity. Not having to worry about becoming pregnant may enhance sexual activity and enjoyment. (See also Effects of Aging on the Male Reproductive System .) decrease, resulting in fewer sperm and a decreased sex drive (libido), but the decrease is gradual. Although blood flow to the penis tends to decrease, most men can have erections and orgasms throughout life. However, erections may not last as long, may be slightly less rigid, or may require more stimulation to maintain. A second erection may require more time. Erectile Dysfunction (ED) (impotence) becomes more common as men age and is often due to a disorder, usually a disorder that affects blood vessels (such as a vascular disease) or 