Sexually transmitted infections in the older woman

Dependent upon sexual behaviour peri- and postmenopausal women are increasingly at risk of sexually transmitted infections, although the overall rates remain low when compared with younger people. Symptoms are often non-specific or absent and may be misinterpreted as being due to the menopause. In addition, both the women and their clinicians may not be aware of their infection risk, thus leading to a delayed or missed diagnosis. Risk assessment and referral for screening of infections should be carried out wherever appropriate.