New research has provided some good news for ladies as they get older – but not so good for the fellas.
A Michigan State University found that having sex later in life has health benefits for women – but can kill men!
Sex can lower the risk of hypertension in women but can double the risk of heart attacks in men, according to the research.
The results come from a survey of 2,024 people aged between 57 and 85 who were questioned in 2005-06 and then again five years later. Researchers say it is the first large-scale study into how sex affects health later in life.
Older men who regularly had sex at least once a week were twice as likely to have cardiovascular episodes within the next five years as men who were not sexually active.
Older women who found sex to be pleasurable and satisfying were less likely to suffer from hypertension.
Hui Liu, associate professor of sociology at the university, says that men may be exerting themselves too much in sexual relationships in later life due to medical or emotional problems – which, in turn, causes exhaustion and stress on the cardiovascular system.
She also said that testosterone levels and use of pills to improve performance could take their toll on an older man’s health.
Ms Liu added: “Previous studies suggest that strong, deep and close relationship is an important source of social and emotional support, which may reduce stress and promote psychological well-being and, in turn, cardiovascular health.
“This may be more relevant to women than to men, because men in all relationships, regardless of quality, are more likely to receive support from their partner than are women.
“However, only women in good quality relationships may acquire such benefits from their partner.”
Written by Michael Kehoe @michaelcalling
