Your Body: How Sex Affects Wellness at an Older Age

iStock/ThinkstockBy DR. JENNIFER ASHTON, ABC News Senior Medical Contributor

You’ve probably already heard that having sex has health benefits. But there is currently little data looking specifically at how sex affects wellness in older people.

Researchers have now found, however, that women who found sex with their partners to be extremely satisfying had a lower risk of high blood pressure five years later. On the other hand, men who found sex extremely pleasurable and satisfying had a higher risk of cardiovascular events.

The research suggests this uncovers a need for healthcare providers to talk to their patients about the risks of sexual activity.

My prescription: Definitely discuss sex with your doctor. If he or she doesn’t ask about it, you should bring it up — it’s an important part of your physical and emotional wellbeing.

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