Dear Dr. Milrod:

I am a 50-something male, I smoke, but not much. I am in average physical condition. Lately I don’t “pop” like I use to. It’s hard to describe I do ejaculate but not as strongly. Is there something I can do to help this?

Older Not Wiser

Dear Older Not Wiser:

Your physiological response may be age-related and normal. Aging changes in the male reproductive system may include changes in testicular tissue, sperm production, and erectile function. These changes usually occur gradually during a process that some people refer to as andropause. Aging changes in the male reproductive system occur primarily in the testes. Testicular tissue mass decreases and the level of the male sex hormone testosterone stays the same or decreases somewhat, depending on the individual’s genetic makeup, exercise, diet, etc. Erectile function may also be impaired. The tubes that carry sperm may become less elastic (a process called sclerosis). The testes continue to produce sperm, but the rate of sperm cell production slows. The epididymis, seminal vesicles, and prostate gland lose some of their surface cells but continue to produce the fluid that helps carry sperm.
The prostate gland enlarges with age as some of the prostate tissue is replaced with a scarlike fibrotic tissue. This condition, called benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), affects about 50% of men. This may cause problems with urination as well as with ejaculation. The volume of fluid ejaculated usually remains the same, but there are fewer living sperm in the fluid.

Decreases in the sex drive (libido) may occur for some men. Sexual responses may become slower and less intense. This may be related to decreased testosterone level, but it may also result from psychological or social changes related to aging (such as lack of a willing partner), illness, chronic conditions, or medications. One advice I always give is to decrease or outright quit smoking. Smoking has an adverse effect on a cellular level and definitely accelerates physical aging. So…if you can butt ’em out for good, it may do YOU some good.And guess what…sex is good at any age, as long as you’ve got a willing accomplice.

Christine Milrod, PhD