🔬 Everything About 'Libido' by Age — A Casual Scientific Look at Gender Comparisons, Social Media Voices, and Trends in COVID, Infidelity, and STDs
#Libido #GenderComparison #SexualBehavior #COVIDPandemic #Infidelity #STDs #ThinkingScientifically #SocialMediaVoices
*Images are for illustrative purposes only.
First, here is the summary! (Conclusion)
Libido changes with age for both men and women, but generally, it is higher on average in men, while women's libido tends to be more variable. Research shows that hormones (especially testosterone) and menopause/perimenopause affect women's desire.
PubMed, and 1 other
While a decline with age is seen in both sexes, data suggests that women are more prone to sudden changes during middle age and menopause, whereas men tend to experience more gradual changes.
PMC, and 1 other
During the COVID pandemic, trends in 'divorce and marriage' varied by country and time period. While divorce rates initially dropped in many countries, many analyses suggest changes occurred later due to the subsequent backlash and domestic stress. On the other hand, some studies indicate a trend of increased desire for and engagement in infidelity, particularly among the parental generation.
PMC, and 1 other
**Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)** vary by country, but in recent years (the last few years), there have been phases where reported cases of syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia have increased, requiring public health caution (see reports from the US CDC and Japanese health authorities).
CDC, and 1 other
The 'real voices' on social media and blogs are diverse, with **'increased desire/loneliness/pursuit of stimulation/dissatisfaction with relationships'** being the main themes. Social media has become both a gateway to temptation and a place for consultation and information sharing.
ResearchGate, and 1 other
A personal positive perspective
Talk of sex is often treated as a taboo, but I think the most rational approach is to accept your 'true self' as it changes with age and environment, and to rely on medical care or support if necessary. Knowing about these things often increases peace of mind and makes conversations with those around you easier, doesn't it? ☺️
From here on is the detailed content and explanation (scientific perspective + social media voices + social trends)
1) 'What does libido refer to?'
Medically, it refers to 'sexual desire (the feeling of wanting to engage in sexual activity),' which is influenced by numerous factors including psychological and physiological (hormones), relational (intimacy with a partner), stress, sleep, medications, and diseases. Self-reported scales (e.g., Sexual Desire Inventory) are used for measurement.
2) Scientific findings on age and gender differences (key points)
Men: It has been shown that, on average, sexual desire tends to be higher than in women. Testosterone plays an important role, but psychosocial factors are also significant. Many people retain sexual desire even as they age, and the decline varies greatly among individuals.
PubMed, 1 other
Women: Increasing data suggests that fluctuations in desire are greater compared to men. Childbirth, child-rearing, hormonal changes (menopause/perimenopause), and the presence or quality of a partner have a strong influence. While some studies show that testosterone administration has contributed to improved desire in some menopausal women, it is not a panacea and requires a physician's judgment.
PMC, 1 other
Age patterns: Large-scale surveys show complex patterns such as 'increasing from youth to middle age/or peaking in middle age' and 'decreasing thereafter,' indicating it is not a simple linear decline (solitary desire = desire directed at oneself, and interpersonal desire = desire for a partner, change on separate axes).
PMC, 1 other
3) Trends in 'real voices' heard on social media and blogs
Looking at X (formerly Twitter), blogs, and bulletin boards, common themes include:
'My desire decreased during the child-rearing period because I had no energy.'
'My sexual desire changed suddenly during menopause.'
'I end up looking for encounters on social media seeking stimulation.'
'I am troubled by the difference in temperature with my partner.'
Academically, it has also been pointed out that social media can be a hotbed for online temptations and 'behaviors leading to online infidelity' (research on the link between SNS use and infidelity-related behaviors).
ResearchGate
4) Why are 'infidelity dramas' popular? (Cultural and psychological perspective)
Emphasis on emotion/catharsis: Betrayal and forbidden love stories provide strong emotional stimulation, allowing viewers to experience extraordinary tension and release.
Interest in the boundaries of morality: There is an increase in character portrayals where good and evil are not clearly defined, making it easier to empathize with characters (including "infidelity you want to root for"). Research suggests that infidelity depicted on television influences viewers' moral judgments and empathy.
ResearchGate, and 1 other
Influence of social media and consumer culture: Celebrity scandals and social media uproar create "viewing demand," leading to a virtuous cycle where becoming a hot topic further increases ratings. Cultural background and social values (views on gender and the diversification of love) are also factors.
PMC
5) Did "infidelity/cheating/divorce" increase during the COVID-19 pandemic? (How to interpret statistics)
Divorce and marriage: In many countries, reports indicate that both marriage and divorce numbers dropped immediately after the 2020 lockdowns (due to delays in legal procedures), and the general conclusion is that they increased in some regions later due to a rebound or timing differences (there are differences by country and period).
PMC, and 1 other
Infidelity/cheating: Depending on the survey, some reports suggest that "changes in desire" or "online-mediated infidelity" increased, but since this also varies by sample and survey method, it is appropriate to treat it as a "region/group-specific trend." Research has also emerged showing that parents experienced changes in desire due to stress.
PMC, and 1 other
6) Recent trends in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) (briefly)
In the United States, the number of reported cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis has remained at a high level in recent years, and the CDC has made STI management a public health priority (totaling millions of cases in 2021-2022 reports).
CDC
In Japan, the number of reported syphilis cases has also increased in recent years, with reports being particularly high across a wide age range, including women in their 20s and men in their 20s to 50s (national infectious disease announcements). Prevention and testing awareness are important.
Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, and 1 other
A quick "what to do" memo (practical)
If you are worried, go to a medical institution: If you experience sudden changes in desire, pain, or abnormalities, consult a gynecologist, urologist, or STI clinic.
Testing is important: STIs are often asymptomatic, so if there is a risk, get tested. You can also utilize anonymous testing at local public health centers.
CDC
Talk to your partner: You can narrow the gap in desires by communicating with each other. Utilizing couples counseling or sex education resources is also effective.
Be careful how you use social media: Online contact easily crosses 'boundaries.' Setting your own rules can provide peace of mind.
ResearchGate
In closing (a personal word)
The first step is to accept the 'changing you' that comes with age and circumstances. While numbers and research are helpful, I believe the most important thing is that you and your loved ones can spend time safely and peacefully. If you have any concerns, start with a small step (testing, medical consultation, or discussion). Information is power.
Thank you as always!
Please don't push yourself too hard!