Valentine's Day is quickly approaching, and if you are married or seeing someone special, it might lead to more intimate moments. However as couples get older, issues and questions can come up when it comes to having sex. In preparation for Valentine's Day, it's a good idea to bring up the topic and determine what's true, and what isn't, about sex drive and aging.
Dr. Diana Bitner, a nationally recognized menopause specialist from Spectrum Health, answers some questions and concerns women may have about sex drive.
False: Low sex drive is just a natural part of aging.
False: Sexual desire is not important for overall health and does not matter after a certain age.
False: Once spontaneous desire (as in thinking about sex and then just coming home and wanting sex) is gone, then a good sex life is all over.
False: Sex drive is all about hormones such as estrogen and testosterone.
True: Pain with sex just once can significantly lower a woman’s sex drive.
False: Pain with sex has to be tolerated as there is no solution.
White Chocolate Sauce with Fruit
After easing your concerns, indulge yourself in some chocolate covered fruit! Dr. Bitner says that it's the perfect combination of sweet and healthy for a Valentine's Day dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 half-pints raspberries
- 2 half-pints blueberries
- 1 pint strawberries, hulled and sliced thick
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 10 ounces good white chocolate (not chips), chopped
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Early in the day, spread the berries on a sheet pan in a single layer and place them in the freezer. Once they’re frozen, store them in a freezer bag.
In a heat-proof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, heat the cream, white chocolate, and vanilla just until the chocolate melts. Don’t let the bowl touch the water. Heat the mixture until it’s warm to the touch, about 110 degrees.
Place the frozen berries in one layer on 6 dessert plates and allow them to sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes to defrost slightly. Pour the hot white chocolate evenly over the frozen berries and serve immediately.
Dr. Bitner's office is located at 3800 Lake Michigan Drive Northwest, Suite A. To schedule an appointment with her, call (616) 267-8225.
All information was provided by Dr. Diana Bitner and her blog. Read more.
