Get tested and talk to your partner: how to have safer sex after age 50

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Adults aged 55 and older are experiencing rising rates of sexually transmitted infections despite increased sexual activity and low pregnancy risk. Health experts stress the importance of open dialogue, routine testing, and protective measures to address this growing public health concern in an often overlooked population.

As people age, sexual activity remains a significant aspect of life, yet questions persist about the need for safer sex practices among adults over 50. Recent trends indicate that while pregnancy becomes less of a concern due to declining fertility and menopause, the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in this age group is rising, prompting health experts to emphasize ongoing vigilance.

Data show that individuals aged 55 and older are engaging in more sexual activity than in previous decades, a shift driven by factors such as improved general health, advances in sexual medicine, and the growing use of dating apps targeted toward older adults. Despite this increased activity, the adoption of preventive measures such as regular STI testing and consistent use of barrier protection has not kept pace.

Experts highlight that, although natural conception is unlikely post-menopause—typically occurring around age 51—STIs remain a significant health risk. Dr. Sarah Berg, an OB-GYN and menopause specialist, noted that rates of infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis have escalated considerably in the over-55 cohort, with chlamydia tripling and gonorrhea increasing sixfold over the past decade. These infections can be overlooked due to symptoms overlapping with other conditions common in older adults, such as menopause-related changes or urinary tract infections, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

An age-related decline in immune system function may also exacerbate the severity of infections among older adults. Dr. Tyler Evans, an infectious disease expert and CEO of a public health organization, pointed out that the body's reduced capacity to respond to microbial threats increases vulnerability. Similarly, Dr. Renee J Flores, a medical professor and sexual health educator, emphasized that while STIs can raise mortality risk if untreated, effective communication with partners, routine testing, and use of barrier methods significantly mitigate these risks.

Several social and systemic factors contribute to the rise in STIs among older adults. Many in this population did not receive comprehensive sex education during their youth and may lack knowledge about STI risks or symptoms. Additionally, misperceptions about partner activity levels and monogamy can lead to complacency regarding testing and protection. The anonymity and immediacy of online dating may further complicate risk assessment, as individuals often have limited information about partners’ sexual health histories.

Healthcare providers may also be a barrier. General practitioners frequently do not inquire about sexual activity in older patients, partly due to assumptions that older adults are less sexually active and limited training on sexual health in aging populations. According to research cited by gerontology specialist Dr. Janie Steckenrider, only a small fraction of older adults—around 17% in one study—have discussed sexual health concerns with their physicians recently. This lack of dialogue underscores the importance of proactive patient engagement.

In summary, while pregnancy is not a concern for most adults beyond their early 50s, the risk of STIs in this demographic is increasing. Experts advocate for open communication, regular testing, and the use of safer sex practices to support the sexual health and well-being of older adults.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.