Do you wonder why there is a sudden increase in several older people getting contacted by STIs?

 The reason stems from the association of taboo with the subject of sexual intercourse. There is a stigma attached to the subject of older individuals engaging in sexual intercourse. The stigma creates a boundary of insecurity around people which prevents them from seeking help when they come across symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases. 

There is also a tendency among older individuals to underestimate the risk of such diseases due to pseudo-scientific statements circulated to them through social networks. 

Further, the lack of sex education available for the older age group creates a situation of lack of awareness about necessary precautions. 

STI PREVENTION- POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS FOR THE ELDERLY

Individuals, irrespective of their age, should be able to engage in sexual intercourse. To have a healthy sex life, it’s crucial to take necessary precautions. These precautions enable individuals, especially people above the age of 65, to prevent contracting STIs. 

CONDOMS

Condoms act as a tool to prevent the spread of STIs. However, according to a report by NCBI, “ Existing empirical evidence on condom use shows that awareness of and association of condom use with the prevention of infections do not imply the proper and efficient use of a condom. Other factors, such as stigma, shame, and the feelings that the use of a condom can reduce sexual pleasures can influence older people’s disposition to condom use.” Hence, it’s crucial to eradicate the social barriers and make condoms not only physically, but socially acceptable too. Condoms are important to prevent STIs in the elderly as it serves as an accessible tool which is easy to use and does not harm an individual’s biological or hormonal cycles.  

MUTUAL MONOGAMY

Mutual monogamy suggests that individuals engaging in sexual intercourse should be sexually active with only one person. Such exclusivity allows the prevention of STIs. 

REGULAR CHECK-UPS

It’s crucial for individuals engaging in intercourse to have information about the biological well-being of each other’s bodies. Regular checkups create a sense of assurance among the partners. The transparency and confidence gained from such medical visits also have a positive impact on the overall intimate lives of the couple. 

LATEX CONDOMS

The usage of latex condoms and water-based lubricants helps in the prevention of STIs. 

HYGIENE

Washing your body, especially the reproductive parts is crucial to prevent any infection. Washing before and after intercourse is important for individuals engaging in sexual activity.

GONORRHOEA AND CHLAMYDIA

In case of contracting these infections, or when there is a possibility of contracting them, paying visits to the doctor is important. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggests that these can be treated by antibiotics. However, it’s also important for your sexual partners to get treated within 60 days. If untreated, Chlamydia can cause pelvic inflammatory disease.