Name three common sexually transmitted infections relevant to midlife women.

• A. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and human papillomavirus (HPV).
• B. HIV, syphilis, and trichomoniasis.
• C. Herpes, chlamydia, and gonorrhea.
• D. HPV, HIV, and chlamydia.

Answer: (B)

In midlife, certain sexually transmitted infections continue to have significant health impact and are particularly relevant to screen for and discuss. HIV remains a major health concern across ages, including midlife, because undiagnosed infection can have long-term consequences and screening based on risk helps prompt early treatment and reduce transmission. Syphilis has seen a rise in many areas and can progress silently in its early stages, so awareness and testing of at-risk individuals are important even in midlife. Trichomoniasis is the most common curable nonviral STI and is often asymptomatic in women, yet it can cause vaginal discharge or irritation and may increase susceptibility to other infections; treatment is straightforward once identified.

These three cover infections with meaningful prevalence and health implications in midlife, guiding clinicians to consider testing and counseling in appropriate patients. Other infections like chlamydia or gonorrhea are more common in younger populations, and HPV is extremely prevalent across ages, so they’re not as specifically targeted for midlife practice in this context.