Rogers: Retirement Does Not Pause Sexual Health Risks

Retirement does not pause the risk of sexually transmitted diseases. Dr. Rhea Rogers, a board-certified physician, told viewers on the program Aging Untold that older adults face the same biological vulnerabilities as younger adults. She stated that getting older does not make a person immune to infection. Rogers noted that while a person’s career may end, their sexual health does not.

Visual cues are not a reliable indicator of health. Rogers emphasized that appearances do not reveal whether a partner has an infection. She observed that people often assume a partner is healthy based on how they look. That assumption can lead to skipped precautions. Rogers advised that age does not change the necessity for protection.

Menopause often creates a false sense of security. Gerontologist Sam Cradduck explained that many individuals believe they are protected because they can no longer get pregnant. She clarified that menopause offers no defense against gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, or human papillomavirus. Cradduck added that syphilis contracted decades earlier can resurface in later life. She reported seeing cases of neurosyphilis in communities of older adults. The bacteria can remain dormant in the body for years.

Human papillomavirus remains the most common sexually transmitted disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the virus can lead to cancer later in life. Rogers said that prevention options have evolved over the decades. This includes new treatments for HIV. However, the basic tools for protection remain the same.

Communication is the first step in prevention. Aging expert Amy O’Rourke suggested that couples start a conversation about testing. She acknowledged that the topic can feel awkward for people who have been married for many years before dating again. O’Rourke recommended stating that an active sex life is important. Then, ask the partner about their testing history and preferred prevention methods. She argued that naming specific diseases helps people take the issue seriously. She preferred hearing the word syphilis over the general term STD because it demands attention.

Medical testing must be current. Rogers warned that a test taken one month ago may not reflect a partner’s current status. She said individuals should know their own risk factors. A weakened immune system is a major risk factor. Rogers explained that a low immune response makes it harder to fight off new exposures. She advised patients to speak with their health care providers about their specific needs.

Product compatibility matters for effective protection. Cradduck noted that some lubricants can damage condoms. She said using the wrong combination can impair the integrity of the barrier. People with a latex allergy must avoid latex condoms. She urged individuals to check product labels before use.

Co-infection is common. Rogers said that when physicians treat a patient for chlamydia or gonorrhea, they often treat for both simultaneously. She noted that having one disease makes it easier to catch another. She also clarified that pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP, prevents HIV infection. It does not protect against other sexually transmitted diseases.

Rogers advised couples to use protection even if they believe they each have only one partner. She said that individuals often only know what their partner tells them. She recommended assuming uncertainty until testing confirms safety. The goal is to protect both parties through clear communication and consistent precautions.