Safe Sex: You’re Never Too Old
With Valentines Day and National Condom Day on February 14, Australia’s leading women’s health organisation, the Jean Hailes Foundation for Women’s Health, reminds all women that they’re never too old to practise safe sex.
Sarah Hardy, education manager at the Foundation, says that the safe sex message is just as important for older women, as it is for younger people. “Women today often outnumber and outlive men and many older women find themselves divorced and facing dating and new relationships,” she says. “Becoming single in your 40s could be a recipe for disaster if you don’t practice safe sex. You can still get pregnant even if your periods are erratic and you can definitely catch an STI.”
While some STIs, such as chlamydia, are on the rise, Ms Hardy says that the biggest issue for women in their 40s, 50s or even older is that they may be uninformed about the risks of STIs. “Beginning to date or negotiating a new relationship can seem very daunting if you’re new at it,” says Ms Hardy. “But, it’s important for women to remember that they have years of life experience behind them and they can draw on their life skills to negotiate a safe and rewarding new sex life.”
“The main message for women this Valentines and National Condom Day,” says Ms Hardy, “ is to practise safe sex. No condom equals no sex, whether you’re 18, 40 or 70!”
It’s not who you are, but what you do that puts you at risk of an STI.
Where to go for further information:
Sexuality http://www.managingmenopause.org.au/content/view/81/91/
Safe Sex: Your are never too old - National Magazine Summer 2005.
A health professional you feel comfortable with
Local community health service
Your local sexual health clinic
Sexual Health and Family Planning Australia National office: 02 8752 4348
To Take the Safe Sex Challenge survey go to the Home Page
Media enquiries:
Sarah Hardy is available for interview by calling Aleeza Zohar on 03 9562 6771 or 0425 758 729.
Page created February 08, 2006
Content February 08, 2006
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