Welcome to the first ever national campaign on sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in people over 50.

No surprises that people in their 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s are having sex with new partners (the oldest caller to our helpline was an 82 year old man starting a new relationship) but this also means that STIs in people over 50 are rising fast – and have been for several years.

Some people are coming out of relationships and dating again. Some have always been single. And many over 50s are enjoying fantastic sex and finding new love at this point in their lives.

The problem is that lots of people over 50, single or dating, don’t think safer sex applies to them. If you’ve been in a long-term relationship it may not have been something you’ve had to factor in for years. And after the menopause, when pregnancy isn’t a concern, using condoms can be easily forgotten about. Result? STIs are making a comeback in a new generation.

STIs don’t care about greying hair or a few wrinkles. If you’re having unprotected sex, an STI will find you just as attractive whatever your age.

Unbelievably. there’s never been a sexual health campaign for people over 50 before. FPA thinks it's time you had a campaign of your own so you can become more aware about STIs and their health risks.

So, if you’re over 50 and having, or thinking about having, sex with a new or different partner(s) this campaign is for you.

Help and advice if you're over 50

Did you know, for example, that you can get an STI from sex toys or oral sex?

Get the facts

• Find out about STIs, what they are and how you get them.

• Find out more about condoms.

• Find out where to go for sexual health advice.

Get advice

You can get one-to-one confidential help and information from our trained advisers at:

• sexual health direct, the helpline run by FPA, on 0845 122 8690
   
• Ask WES the FPA Web Enquiry Service

Information for professionals

Sexual Health Week information for professionals.

Information for journalists

The press day for Sexual Health Week will be 14 September 2010. Email gerryh@fpa.org.uk to join our press release mailing list.

High res jpegs of our four campaign posters are available on request.

Sexual Health Week goes social

If you use Facebook or Twitter show your support for Sexual Health Week by adding our Sexual Health Week Twibbon to your profile.

Contact information

Gerry Halliday, Press and Campaigns Officer
Tel: 0207 608 5264
Email: gerryh@fpa.org.uk

Rebecca Findlay, Press and Campaigns Manager
Tel: 0207 608 5265
Email: rebeccaf@fpa.org.uk