The Rising Need for STI Screening in Adults Over 50
This article was written by Dr Nneka Nwokolo, Consultant Physician in Sexual Health and HIV at the London Lauriston Clinic.
Sexual health is an important part of overall wellbeing at every stage of life. Yet one of the most common misconceptions is that sexually transmitted infections (STIs) only affect younger adults.
In reality, STI rates are rising among people aged 50 and above. Recent public health data show a steady increase in diagnoses in this age group, a trend that deserves far greater attention than it currently receives.
Several factors contribute to the growing number of STIs among adults over 50. One key reason is the reduced use of condoms in new relationships. Many people in midlife and later years are leaving long-term monogamous relationships and forming new partnerships following separation, divorce, or bereavement. While this can be a positive and fulfilling stage of life, it also carries an often-overlooked risk.
Individuals who have not needed to use contraception with a long-term partner for many years may assume that the absence of pregnancy risk also means the absence of infection risk. However, a new partner may have had previous relationships where protection was not used, increasing the risk of transmission. Anyone who is sexually active can contract an STI, regardless of age, gender, or background.
In post-menopausal women, hormonal changes during menopause may also heighten susceptibility to infection. As oestrogen levels decline, the vaginal tissues become thinner, drier, and more fragile, making them more prone to small tears during intercourse. These micro-injuries can facilitate the transmission of infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and trichomoniasis.
Additionally, many people over 50 did not receive the same level of sexual health education as younger generations and may feel less comfortable discussing sexual health with a clinician. This lack of open dialogue can lead to limited awareness of STI risks and delayed diagnosis or treatment.
The good news is that most STIs can be detected and treated easily if identified early, preventing complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease or long-term discomfort.
STI screening should not be seen as an inconvenience or a source of embarrassment but as a normal and responsible part of maintaining good health. Just as regular checks for blood pressure, cholesterol, or cancer are routine in midlife, sexual health testing should be approached with the same level of care. Having a simple, confidential check-up at the end of a relationship or before starting a new one allows infections to be detected and treated promptly, often with minimal intervention.
For those seeking expert, discreet, and compassionate care, the London Lauriston Clinic is a trusted private healthcare clinic providing comprehensive STI screening and sexual health services.
Regular STI screening remains a vital part of preventative healthcare, because prioritising your health should never have an age limit. Taking proactive steps towards your sexual health is an investment in long-term wellbeing; a simple check today can prevent far more complex issues tomorrow.
