Writing about sex for “the first time”, one of the contributors to your special supplement on “How to have a healthy sex life” (22 April) wrote: “Remember, it’s the first time – it doesn’t have to be the best time.”
The supplement made for some interesting reading. But I think the above advice could also be applied to the special issue itself. Of all the articles included in the supplement, only three were written by men. The majority of the articles were about sex in heterosexual relationships. Only one (other than the introductory article, in passing) discussed sex in gay relationships, and not one specifically discussed sex between senior citizens. Well, hopefully it will be better next time.
Philip C Stenning
Eccleshall, Staffordshire
• I had to check that the article I read on 23 April 2023 about having a healthy sex life was not an accidental throwback to a vintage 1950s piece, with its lack of inclusivity for women past their “early 60s”. Apparently we have “significant loss of libido” thereafter, and require no further mention. It was as though modern HRT doesn’t exist, nor barriers knocked down that had previously assumed sexually active lives of older women unseemly and unmentionable. Hello! Here we are.
Mary Vine
Ryde, Isle of Wight
• I’m relieved that at 74 going on 75, I don’t have to worry about sexting, threesomes, one‑night stands, inventive tongues or my libido, but thanks for the memories.
Sam White
Lewes, East Sussex
• I lost my sex life a very long time ago. So long ago, in fact, that I really can’t remember if I ever had one.
Stefan Badham
Portsmouth, Hampshire
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