GBMC Greater Living Live discuss STDs with expert Dr. Lindsay Morrell

People usually cringe when they hear the words "sexually transmitted diseases" (STDs). It's a problem that is often swept under the rug because people simply aren't comfortable talking about it. When they are discussed, STDs are generally associated with young people, but retirees are the second highest diagnosed population. In this episode of Greater Living Live, Mary Beth Marsden and Don Scott address misconceptions about and treatments for sexually transmitted diseases with GBMC OB/GYN Dr. Lindsay Morrell.

There is a false perception that STD cases are decreasing, when in fact, they are increasing at an alarming rate — especially in older populations. Postmenopausal women may stop using protection because they no longer have the risk of becoming pregnant, but that leaves them vulnerable to STDs. "Condoms are the only things that protect against sexually transmitted diseases," says Dr. Morrell. That being said, condoms aren't foolproof, especially for diseases that are spread through skin-to-skin contact. Dr. Morrell also suggests that women who do want to prevent pregnancy use an additional form of contraception along with a condom.

Most STDs don't have symptoms, so it’s especially important to get screened regularly and when you have a new partner. Testing has advanced over recent years and now most STD tests are available through your primary care provider. Although not all STDs are curable, they are all treatable. If you are concerned about having an STD, don't hesitate to contact your doctor.