Study Reveals Surprising Relationship Between Age and Sexual Desire

Sexual desire, including the motivation to engage in sexual activity, is often thought to decrease as someone gets older. However new studies could suggest its not so straightforward.

In a recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Hamburg, age and sexual desire were not as strongly correlated as some might expect. While generally sexual desire peaked among those between 30 and 40 years of age, results varied on an individual level.

The study distinguished between different types of desire, including towards a partner, towards an attractive person, and towards themselves. Sexual desire among males towards their partner remained quite stable in all age groups, an article from PsyPost explains. 

Among respondents above 60 years of age, sexual desire differs on an individual level, with some increased and decreased levels.

The study spoke with 8,150 respondents between 15 and 80 years old. 67% of respondents were female, with over 70% stating they are heterosexual.

The authors of the study do note that respondents in the 30 to 40 age range could experience higher levels of desire due to other factors other than age. Additionally, results may be skewed as women tend to under-report sexual desire when compared to men.