1. Age and sexuality
> Women’s changing sexuality
A woman is physiologically ready to have sexual relations at puberty, around the age of 12-13, when she has her first period (which indicates that she’s able to have children). But that doesn’t mean that she’s psychologically prepared for sex. According to statistics, an average woman’s sex life begins at 16 years of age. However, women reach full sexual maturity at around the age of 30, when they have gained experience. Throughout a woman’s life, her sexual desire is affected by hormonal change. It often decreases when the menopause occurs, when levels of oestrogen and testosterone drop. Also, our libido changes every month with our menstrual cycle, normally peaking during ovulation.
> The menopause and afterwards
The menopause doesn't signal the end of your sex life! Quite the opposite, in fact: with more time to devote to themselves and their relationships, many women dedicate more time to their sex life. This period of a woman’s life often brings about renewed sexual desire. The experience that a woman has built up over time can see the dawn of a new level of intimacy in her relationship, enhanced by the rich history she shares with her other half.
2. Relationships and sexuality
> Passion and bonding
During the first two to five years of a relationship, a couple will make love an average 13 times a month. This is a period of passion and discovery, based on seduction and the feeling that your partner can satisfy all your desires and expectations. Entering an intimate relationship with someone involves a bonding phase, noticeably where sex is concerned. During this phase, the brain releases phenylethylamine, a hormone that contributes to maintaining that exhilarating feeling that he's The One!
> When passion fades, sexuality flourishes
After five years together, Mr and Mrs Average enter a more stable period, during which they make love around 9 times a month. Living together in day-to-day reality gives you the chance to find out who your partner really is. The erotic element of the relationship is based on stronger links and pleasure can become more intense because your relationship is more complete.
> Parents and lovers?
The reality of daily life often coincides with starting a family. Being lovers and parents isn’t always easy: a woman’s body changes during pregnancy and both partners have to adapt to new roles. This is where talking will generally help you to overcome any hurdles. The daily effort, worries and tiredness caused by having kids can help you forge even stronger bonds with your partner. Bringing up a family together can only be done when both partners are in good health and good sexual health, so make time to invent and reinvent sex games and little rituals to keep your love life alive and well!
