"Macho" Males May Be at Greater Risk for STD with Age

The incidence of sexually transmitted diseases among middle aged adults has increased in recent years. With a greater sense of freedom, many adults over age 50 are finding their sexuality is more open, diverse and, ultimately, this may have led to a new health risk for adults of this age group. For men, in particular, the stereotypical image of being macho often impedes the successful treatment of STDs which may, unfortunately, place their partners at risk for infection.

In some male subgroups, cultural influence may encourage sex with multiple partners. Within these cultural influences men are considered more "macho" by the male peers when able to boast of more sexual conquests. If you, or someone you love, is sexually active and may not be as open to communicate about those experiences, it is important to, at least, encourage regular health examinations in an effort to reduce the risk for STD.

While men tend to be at greater risk for engaging in sexual activity with multiple partners, there is concern that women are being placed at risk for sexually transmitted diseases, STD, without even being familiar with the potential health risk. Because women, in some cultures, are expected to be repressed sexually and submissive to the man in their lives, these women often do not question the sexual conquests of their partner. Ultimately, because men and women in mid-life are experiencing a greater prevalence of STDs, women are often becoming infected without realizing there is a health risk.

In many family practitioner offices, physicians and nurse practitioners are now engaging middle aged adults in conversations about sexual behavior. Understanding there is a real risk to this age group, men especially are being questioned regarding their sexual behaviors and practices. While most men are involved in monogamous relationships, there are some that will admit to becoming involved with multiple partners and it is this group of men that must be educated in proper sexual health. Whether you, or someone you love, falls into this age group, ask your family healthcare professional about the issues of sexual health.