Module 1 PPT 8: Adult Sexuality

Flashcards covering the changes in sexuality and reproductive health during the aging process for both males and females.

Adult Sexuality

Changes in sexuality from adolescence to aged.

Female Breasts

Breasts change dramatically in size, shape, and function across the lifespan

Breast Vulnerability

Genes that control growth can’t shut off, making breasts vulnerable to genetic changes and cancers.

Estrogen

Promotes development of sex characteristics, regulates menstrual cycle, and increases body fat.

Progesterone

Functions to prepare for and maintain pregnancy, and promotes memory and cognitive development.

Menarche

Transition from childhood to adulthood, often viewed negatively in U.S. culture.

Peri-menopause

Ovaries lose capacity to respond, fertility drops, and menstrual irregularity occurs.

Menopause

Menstruation ceases for 12 consecutive months with no other explanation, typically between 45-55 years of age.

Peri-Menopause Symptoms

Labia, breasts, and uterus tissue shrinks; body fat redistributes; night sweats and hot flashes occur.

Menopause Negatives

Bones lose mass, hair thins, vaginal dryness, and incontinence may occur.

Testosterone

Produces secondary sexual characteristics, maintains sexual functioning and muscle mass.

Male Opause

Testosterone levels start to decline, muscle and bone mass decrease, height decreases, and sperm quality declines.

Sexuality and Aging

Aging doesn’t eliminate the desire for sex, but physical changes, medication side effects, loss of partners, and social embarrassment can affect it.