Evidence check: STI Test in the context of menopause

The question of STI testing during menopause is clinically relevant, but evidence specifically linking menopause to altered STI testing recommendations is limited. Menopause itself does not directly increase STI risk, but hormonal changes (estrogen decline) can cause vaginal atrophy, dryness, and microlesions, potentially increasing susceptibility to pathogens like Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, or HSV. Additionally, condom use often declines because pregnancy is no longer a concern. Current guidelines (e.g., CDC, RKI) recommend STI screening for all sexually active individuals regardless of age, especially with risk factors like new or multiple partners. PCR-based DNA testing for STI pathogens is the gold standard, but there is no menopause-specific test. MyBody-X does not offer validated STI diagnostics in the menopause context. The evidence level is best described as 'practice' (guideline-based) rather than strong menopause-specific evidence. Caveat: Hormone replacement therapy or local estrogen may reduce infection risk but do not replace screening. Safety note: STI tests are low-risk, but false negatives can occur in early infections.