Thinking of going much younger for sex

[Sofabodatgym]

I've not had sex for a number of years and still have a reasonable libido, though menopausal, I'm single but have been disappointed with men my own age on OLD, really disappointed.
So instead of waiting for a relationship, which I'd love, I'm thinking of going for sex with a younger guy. I've always had strict age limits on OLD and not encouraged the younger guys in RL. But I can't face another date with a 50 year old guy telling me his trauma/problems, not asking me one question(!) And they don't feel that safe and aren't consent aware and don't really take care of themselves, yet expect women to.
So why not go young?
But I have a fear of STIs or is it STDs? As my immunity isn't great. And I have an overall fear after not having sex for a while, partly will it hurt? He could attack me? I had a bad experience last time I had sex, a while back. Lastly, I maybe worry about feeling creepy, even if I don't go below age 34. I'm 50.
Anyone gone here? Does it make you feel older? I guess getting back in the sack, is just a matter of doing it. Any other thoughts welcome

Great advice. I think there is a hesitancy among women in there fifties to carry condoms and there really shouldn’t be.

Condoms, Tampax and spare knix are always in my handbag. Over the years, I’ve probably “loaned” more condoms to friends than have been used with me. I’ve also been called names by others for always having some with me. But women are responsible for their own sexual health.

Absolutely. There just still seems a stigma with some people about carrying condoms. It’s truly awful as what’s to be ashamed about!

I get the impression middle aged men whose erectile function is waning would prefer not to use condoms and, after the menopause, if a woman insists on one she is effectively saying,
“For all I know you have an STI.”

Be confident! If they want to get laid they can do so safely or not at all!

Great post @PinotPony

I have always fancied men who are a tad older but perhaps there are some perks in dating younger guys

When we were young we wanted experience not fumbling or impatience of the young men. We wanted to be wined and dined in a proper restaurant, not a Wimpy or a Harvester.

Now we can provide our own sophistication and we have money. We now prioritise performance.

I’m in my 50s as well, and I’ve recently started seeing younger guys. I’ve kept it to myself, mostly to avoid any judgment from family or friends, but it’s really nice to be able to talk about it openly here. If you’re thinking about it, I’d say it’s worth exploring. It can be a bit nerve-wracking at first, but sometimes it’s about taking that first step. Just be kind to yourself and take things at your own pace.

STIs are higher in the older age group I believe, so it ties in with what's being said here. We're more embarrassed and more likely to take risks possibly because the pregnancy risk goes away. But I think having good boundaries around it will serve you well, and maybe empower you to also be up front and uncompromising about what you want from your experiences.

As long as it’s fully consensual and both parties are comfortable then there’s nothing wrong with it. There seems to be a bit of a double standard in that women who like younger men are classed as ‘cougars’ who are seemingly ‘up to no good’ whereas older men who like younger women are normalised and don’t have much of a classification. I really like younger men from 18-25 as long as they are mentally mature

Talking of double standards! Try being an older Bi woman?
My work colleagues knew I was going out with a woman, She was only a few years younger than me, I am 51. In the main they were supportive. That relationship ended. I have now met a 29 year old. We get on well, similar taste in music. Enjoy going out together.
The reaction of friends to this new GF are very different. A definite critical tone has crept into conversations. GF tells me she is getting 'advice' about older lesbians who 'take advantage' of the young and innocent. What bollocks she has far more experience than me. She has always been gay, I am a late developer.
She is a real breath of fresh air in my life. The vivacity! She has stopped me being 'mumsie' It is very nice when she stays the night.
I have no regrets and neither has she.