Senior Sex (cont.)

Age does not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases. Older people who are sexually active may be at risk for diseases such as:

• syphilis,
• gonorrhea,
• chlamydial infection,
• genital herpes,
• hepatitis B,
• genital warts,
• trichomoniasis

But these diseases can and do happen in sexually active older people.

Almost anyone who is sexually active is also at risk for being infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. The number of older people with HIV/AIDS is growing. To protect yourself, always use a condom during sex. You are at risk for HIV/AIDS if you or your partner has more than one sexual partner or if you are having unprotected 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. Go for regular check-ups and testing. Talk with your partner. You are never too old to be at risk.