Why are women in their 50s and 60s being urged to practice safe sex?

There has been a rise in new HIV cases among heterosexual groups, and some older women are not using condoms, increasing their risk.

What is Blue Sky Trust doing about rising HIV cases?

Blue Sky Trust is seeing more older women for support and using social media to combat misinformation and raise awareness.

Is HIV increasing in women through heterosexual sex?

Yes, a parliamentary committee noted a rise in women across all age groups being infected through sex with men.

Home / Health / Safe Sex Urged for 50s & 60s Women

Safe Sex Urged for 50s & 60s Women

1 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Women in their 50s and 60s are urged to practice safe sex.
A rise in new HIV cases is observed in heterosexual groups.
Some older women are not using condoms, increasing their risk.

Health campaigners are issuing urgent calls for women aged 50 and over to adopt safer sex practices. This appeal comes in response to a documented rise in new HIV diagnoses among heterosexual individuals, particularly affecting women in this demographic. The concern is that a lack of consistent condom use among some older women is significantly elevating their vulnerability to the virus.

A sexual health charity operating across northeast England and Cumbria has observed an increasing number of older women coming forward for assistance and information. This anecdotal evidence aligns with broader findings from a parliamentary committee, which has also noted a concerning upward trend in HIV infections among women across various age groups transmitted through heterosexual contact.

In light of these developments, efforts are underway to combat misinformation and enhance awareness. Charities are utilizing social media platforms to disseminate accurate information about HIV prevention and living safely with the virus. The focus remains on educating this demographic about the continued importance of safe sex and available support services.