SEXUALLY
TRANSMITTED DISEASES

The 40-something woman is in the midst of rediscovering her sexual being, reconciling with body and intimacy. For some, it can lead to increased exposure to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Faced with menopause and knowledge of birth control methods, those who are not concerned with an unwanted pregnancy, frequently become careless about protection against STDs. Although many STDs are treatable, others such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), Hepatitis B and C, lack effective treatment, and diseases such as gonorrhea have become less responsive to conventional therapy. HIV cannot be avoided by using birth control. Condoms and frequent HIV testing decrease the probability of exposure. Abstinence is the only real method of preventing HIV. An HPV infection increases the risk for cervical cancer and genital warts. Annual Pap smears detect the presence of HPV and early changes of cervical cells that may suggest transformation into malignant cells, facilitating definitive treatment and prevention of more advanced forms of cervical cancer.

Remember, sexual contact includes kissing, oral-genital contact and the use of sexual “toys,” which increase risk for STDs. Signs and symptoms may include fatigue, weight loss, vaginal discharge, rashes, pelvic pain and palpable lymph nodes.

TAKE PRECAUTIONS

• Avoid unprotected sex every time.
• Get routine pelvic exams even when symptoms are absent.
• Remember, birth control methods do not protect against STDs.
• Make sure you and your partner take the right steps to be protected.

—Delmont