STIs, or sexually transmitted infections, are bacteria or viruses that cause disease and that are spread through sexual contact, such as sex. These include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, HPV, and HIV. The rate of STIs is growing among seasoned women, with 17% of new STIs being reported among women 50 years old and older. There are several factors that could be contributing to this increase: the use of medications and lubricants to make sex more enjoyable, lack of knowledge among STIs, and not using safe sex practices.