Better general health and drugs like Viagra are among the reasons why pensioners are having more active sex lives – with doctors admitting they are treating patients in their 90s. A rise in the number of OAPs using dating websites to hook up for sex is also thought to be behind the increase of STIs in older people. Figures from Public Health England show that in the past 12 months, the number of over-65s presenting with one of the five main STIs including warts, herpes and chlamydia has risen.
It is up from 1,411 in 2016 to 1,608 in 2017.
The news comes at a time when the number of youngsters being diagnosed with the same illnesses is falling.
In the past five years, the number of OAPs being diagnosed with syphilis has trebled and those falling prey to gonorrhoea has more than doubled.
Chlamydia cases have also increased by 49 per cent and there has been a 36 per cent rise in people requiring treatment for herpes.
Dr Mark Lawton, a sexual health consultant, said: “While the majority of the patients we see in clinic are younger, it’s not uncommon to see people in their 60s or 70s.
“In fact, the oldest patient I’ve seen was 91 and he was still enjoying a healthy sex life.
“It’s important to remember that age doesn’t make you immune to STIs so using condoms and getting tested are still important.
“Also, please don’t feel embarrassed about going to a clinic. We treat people from all ages and backgrounds and it’s completely confidential.
“We don’t need to inform your GP or anyone else of your attendance.”