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- The formula of desire: why maturity turned out to be the main age of men's sexual activity
The formula of desire: why maturity turned out to be the main age of men's sexual activity
Men are most sexually active not in their youth, as is commonly believed, but at the age of 30-40 years. Scientists from the University of Tartu in Estonia came to this conclusion after analyzing the data of more than 67 thousand people. The results of the study are published in the journal Scientific Reports. The study showed that men's sexual desire gradually increases by the age of 20, reaches a maximum in 30-40 years, and then begins to decline. Why adulthood turns out to be the period of the greatest intimate activity and what factors influence it — in the Izvestia article.
Why is the peak of sexual activity in the 30s and 40s?
An analysis of the data of people aged 20 to 84 years showed that the dynamics of libido in men and women differ significantly. If men's sexual desire and activity reach their maximum in adulthood, then women have the greatest attraction earlier — in the period from 20 to 30 years. After that, it gradually weakens, and after 50 years it can decrease significantly.
At the same time, scientists note that men's sexual activity often remains at a high level even after the age of 60. Moreover, some of the study participants at this age showed activity levels comparable to those of 20-year-olds.
Researchers were particularly interested in the fact that high levels of libido were more common in people in stable and long-term relationships. This, according to scientists, may indicate the important role of emotional intimacy and psychological security.
Why hormones are not the only factor
A common explanation for sexual desire in men is related to testosterone levels. However, the results of the study partially contradict this logic: it is known that the concentration of this hormone begins to decrease gradually after about 30 years.
As the gynecologist-endocrinologist of the Polyclinic network explains.<url>" Sandra Rshtuni, hormone does play an important role, but it is not the only factor.
— Testosterone levels in men after the age of 30 begin to decrease by about 1-1.5% per year. However, this does not always directly affect libido. There are studies where patients with low testosterone levels maintain high sex drive, and vice versa — with high levels of the hormone, libido may be reduced," the specialist notes.
According to her, sexual desire is formed in the brain and depends on a whole range of factors, from physiological to psychological.
— Libido can be affected by hormonal fluctuations, chronic diseases such as diabetes or obesity, as well as infections and anatomical features. But psychological factors are also of great importance: stress, anxiety and depression, relationship problems," the doctor explains.
Psychology of maturity and self-confidence
Experts believe that a high level of sexual activity at the age of 30-40 is largely related to psychological maturity. Clinical psychologist Ksenia Savelyeva notes that in youth, intimate life is often accompanied by anxiety and a desire to prove one's worth.
— Young people may worry about how they look or whether they behave correctly. By the age of 30-40, a man knows his body, his desires and capabilities better. His self—esteem no longer depends solely on sexual success, so the fear of failure disappears," the expert explains.
The approach to intimacy itself changes with age. If quantity and novelty are more important in youth, then in adulthood the emphasis shifts to the quality of interaction and emotional intimacy. According to the psychologist, context begins to play an important role: trust, shared experiences, intellectual intimacy and a sense of security.
Stress and burnout as the main enemies of libido
At the same time, experts note that sexual desire strongly depends on lifestyle. Even at the age of potential peak activity, libido may decrease due to chronic stress or emotional exhaustion.
— In a state of constant tension, the body works in survival mode: cortisol levels rise, the sympathetic nervous system is activated. In such a situation, the reproductive function becomes secondary to the body," says Savelieva.
In addition, lack of sleep, overwork, sedentary lifestyle and taking certain medications are of great importance.
Experience and social factors
Clinical psychologist and sexologist Artyom Tarayants notes that it is important to distinguish between sexual attraction and sexual activity. According to him, the attraction itself in men is clearly manifested already during puberty, but real sexual activity often reaches its maximum later.
— By the age of 30-40, men gain sufficient experience in communicating with the opposite sex and practical intimate life skills. In addition, they have a social status and financial opportunities that allow them to realize this experience," the specialist explains.
The expert also emphasizes that the level of sexual activity is not always directly related to the stability of the relationship. In some couples, intimate life can be intense, in others — less active, and both options are considered the norm if they suit the partners.
Is there a "normal" libido level
Experts agree that there is no universal norm of sexual desire. It is influenced by many factors: health, lifestyle, emotional state and the quality of relationships. According to experts, in the absence of serious hormonal disorders, libido remains a dynamic indicator that can change throughout life.
Physical activity, adequate sleep, stress reduction, and emotional intimacy with a partner can significantly support sexual desire even at a more mature age. That is why, as psychologists note, for many people, the period of 30-40 years can really become the time of the most harmonious and intense intimate life.
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