Age does not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases. Older people who are sexually active may be at risk for syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydial infection, genital herpes, hepatitis B, genital warts and trichomoniasis.
Almost anyone who is sexually active is also at risk of being infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. The number of older people with HIV/AIDS is growing. You are at risk if you or your partner has more than one sexual partner or if you are having unprotected sex.
To protect yourself, always use a condom during sex. For women with vaginal dryness, lubricated condoms or a water-based lubricating jelly with condoms may be more comfortable. A man needs to have a full erection before putting on a condom. Talk with your doctor about ways to protect yourself from all sexually transmitted diseases. Schedule regular checkups and testing.
Talk with your partner. You are never too old to be at risk.
Source: National Institute on Aging
Good Neighbor Pharmacy Health Connection, Dec 2017
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