References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
STI risk doesn’t disappear with age. In fact, while overall STI rates are highest in younger adults, women in midlife and beyond face their own set of considerations — different sexual patterns, new relationships after divorce or bereavement, and biological changes that can affect vulnerability. Healthcare sometimes overlooks older women’s sexual health, which can lead to missed infections.
Here’s what the picture looks like at different life stages.
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How Risk Shifts Across the Lifespan
| Age Group | Key Factors |
|---|---|
| Under 25 | Highest overall STI rates, particularly chlamydia; new partners, sexual exploration |
| 25-45 | Rates remain significant; new partnerships, changing relationships |
| Perimenopause and menopause | Dryness and thinning vaginal tissue may increase susceptibility |
| Post-menopause | New relationships after divorce or bereavement; reduced condom use if contraception no longer a concern |
| Older adults | STI rates rising globally in older adults; often overlooked by services |
Why Older Women Face Specific Risks
- Vaginal atrophy — thinner tissue is more prone to micro-tears and inflammation
- No pregnancy worry — can reduce motivation to use condoms
- New partnerships — after divorce, widowhood or late-life dating
- Healthcare bias — clinicians may not ask about sexual activity
- Shame and silence — older women may feel stigma around discussing sexual health
- Lower testing rates — regular screening often stops when cervical screening ends at 65
STI Trends in Older Adults
STI rates have been rising in older adults in the UK and elsewhere. Common reasons include:
- More divorces and subsequent new relationships
- Online dating making new partners easier to find
- Erectile dysfunction treatments extending active sex lives
- Lack of sexual health education about STIs in older generations
- Assumptions that STIs are “young people’s problems”
Practical Recommendations
For women of all ages
- Don’t assume STIs are only a younger person’s issue
- Test with every new partner regardless of age
- Use condoms with new partners, even without pregnancy concerns
- Discuss sexual health openly with your GP
- Attend screening appointments (including cervical until 65)
For older women specifically
- Manage vaginal atrophy — topical oestrogen or moisturisers can help reduce micro-tears
- Consider condoms for STI protection even after menopause
- Don’t hesitate to request STI testing from your GP
- Use sexual health clinics — they welcome all ages
HIV in Older Women
HIV is often diagnosed late in older adults because it isn’t on the clinical radar. Symptoms can be attributed to age or other conditions. If you’re sexually active, HIV testing is appropriate at any age.
Breaking the Taboo
Sexual health services are for everyone. You have every right to comprehensive care regardless of age. If you feel your concerns are being dismissed, ask to be referred to a sexual health clinic directly — you don’t need a GP referral.
Read more: Menstrual health and HIV | STIs and relationships | Common STI symptoms in women
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I too old to get an STI?
No. STI risk exists at any age if you are sexually active. Rates in older adults are rising, not falling.
Should I still use condoms after menopause?
If you have new or multiple partners, yes. Condoms protect against STIs even when pregnancy isn’t a concern.
Does menopause increase my STI risk?
Vaginal changes can make transmission slightly easier. Managing dryness and using condoms help.
Related reading
- A to Z of Sex: Sexual Health Terms Explained
- Alcohol and HIV: What You Need to Know
- Anxiety and HIV: Coping and Getting Support
- Are All STIs Curable?
- Blood Problems and HIV: Anaemia, Low Platelets and More
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
