Just as young people are taught safe sex, people beyond the age of 50 should also be educated about safe sex to further prevent a rise in the case of sexually transmitted infections in any society. Any sexual contact that doesn’t include partners exchanging blood, vaginal fluids, or semen is referred to as safe sex. This kind of sex guarantees that both partners are protected against all forms of STDs and even unintended pregnancy. This means that having sex with an infected partner when a sore or rash is present can spread some STIs, like syphilis and genital warts. It is also crucial to remember that not all STIs have clear symptoms, so you might not even be aware that you have one with your sexual partners. Some of the sexually transmitted diseases are gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and syphilis. Gonnorhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) brought on by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria. It is a sexually transmitted infection that typically affects the mucous membranes of the reproductive tract, which includes the cervix, uterus, and fallopian tubes in women, as well as the urethra in males. Additionally, the lips, throat, eyes, and rectum may be affected. Likewise, bacteria are the source of the sexually transmitted infection (STI) syphilis. It develops in phases, each with unique symptoms, and if unchecked, can lead to serious consequences. Congenital syphilis is the result of syphilis transmitted from an infected mother to her unborn child during pregnancy. Syphilis is also contracted by direct contact with a syphilitic sore (chancre) during vaginal, anal, or oral intercourse. On the other hand, the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis is the cause of one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted illnesses (STIs), chlamydia. It affects the reproductive system, urinary tract, and occasionally the rectum, throat, and eyes in both men and women. Since many infected individuals do not exhibit any symptoms, chlamydia is sometimes referred to as a “silent” illness; yet, if treatment is not received, it can still result in major health problems. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Every day, over a million treatable STIs (sexually transmitted infections) are contracted in individuals aged 15 to 49 worldwide; the vast majority of these infections are asymptomatic. Additionally, an estimated 374 million new cases of one of the four treatable STIs—chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis—were reported in 2020 among individuals aged 15 to 49. It was projected that 1.1 million expectant mothers would have syphilis in 2022, which would lead to roughly 390,000 unfavourable birth outcomes.

Firstly, abstinence, which entails total avoidance of intercourse, is seen to be the safest way to prevent STIs and unintended pregnancy. Then, ensuring that a person has only one sexual partner is another safe strategy to adopt if a sexually active person refuses to refrain. In this manner, if neither partner has any STDs, there won’t be a cause for any, and several sexual partners can be avoided.

For healthy sexual relations, condom use is also highly recommended. The male condom, the female condom, and the diaphragm are the three main types of condoms, according to a BetterHealth Channel article. The male condom, often known as the external condom, is a robust, thin latex (rubber) pouch available in various sizes and designs. Nonetheless, non-latex condoms are available for those who are allergic to latex ones. Simultaneously, the female or external condom consists of a soft synthetic rubber bag with two flexible rings at either end, resembling an external condom. These condoms are pre-lubricated, available in a single size, and are meant to fit within the vagina or anus. A diaphragm is a thin, silicone cup that covers the cervix (the opening leading into the uterus or womb) and fits inside the vagina. Pregnancy is effectively prevented with diaphragms, however STIs are not prevented by them. A person must make sure a condom is brand-new and verify its expiration date before using it. This will assist in preventing any breakage that might happen during sex. Finally, only use water-based lubricants if you require more lubrication. The condom may get damaged by other lubricants. From the very beginning of sex to the very finish, condoms should be used. When your partner pre-ejaculates (also known as “pre-cums”) during arousal, STIs may be spread.