Sexually Transmitted Diseases: What You Don't Know Can Hurt You

Back in the day, you used a condom to prevent pregnancy. "Safe" was not a word you associated with "sex."

Welcome to the 21st century. Today, we are healthier and living longer. More people are sexually active in their later years than in the past, thanks to new medications and youthful attitudes.

All good. If you are new to dating again after the death or divorce of a spouse, though, there are new things to learn. You may not be well informed about sexually-transmitted diseases (STDs) that were not as common or didn't exist years ago. These infections include genital warts, herpes, chlamydia, HIV (the virus that causes AIDS) and others.

Old enough to know better
Anyone who does not use protection when having sex could get an STD. That includes people who are 80 years old. It includes women who have had a uterus or ovaries removed. It includes couples who only have oral sex.

Few "safe sex" education programs target the middle-aged and elderly. So, older people may think they won't get an STD. Many do not know how STDs spread, what the symptoms are, or how to protect themselves.

Seniors may be ashamed or fearful about asking a doctor to screen them for STDs. Doctors may fail to ask older patients if they are at risk for an STD. The symptoms of infection may be mistaken for another condition the older person has.

For all these reasons, experts suspect there may be many more cases of STDs in the elderly than are reported. According to the National Institute on Aging, the number of older people found to have AIDS is growing each year. About 19 percent of those with HIV/AIDS in the U.S. are age 50 and older.

Surprised by the numbers? People with HIV now live longer, thanks to better treatment. Plus, more older people who were infected earlier are now being diagnosed. Most important to realize, though, is that people over 50 are becoming infected.

Women at higher risk
Women have a higher risk for STDs than men. They are twice as likely as men to get gonorrhea, hepatitis B or HIV when exposed. Genital warts are more dangerous in women, too, because the infection can lead to cervical cancer.

Changes that occur after menopause also raise a woman's risk. With loss of estrogen, the vagina can become dry and tissue can thin. This can lead to small cuts and tears in the vagina that can be pathways to infection. If you seldom have sex, the vagina grows smaller, which can cause tissue to tear during intercourse.

If you are sexually active:

• Learn what having safe sex means. Talk to your doctor and read up on the subject.
• Always use a condom with new partners. Ask them about drug use and their sexual histories.
• Get a regular physical exam. Ask what screening test you might need if you are at risk.
• If you think you have an STD or have been exposed to one, see your doctor right away.
• If you are found to have an STD, urge your partner to be tested and treated, too.

Remember that STDs can be prevented. While some STDs have no cure, they can usually be managed and kept in check for many years. See your doctor at once if you suspect an STD. This will ensure the best outcome.

Related Articles Common Sexually Transmitted Diseases Sexually Transmitted Diseases AIDS/HIV Test Cupid's Guide to Safe Sex

External Sources The North American Menopause Society. Why safe sex is a menopause priority. Accessed June 13, 2007. National Institute on Aging. HIV, AIDS, and older people. Accessed June 13, 2007. US Department of Health and Human Resources. Sexual Health. Accessed June 13, 2007.

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