Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are increasingly common among young people. Here are seven simple ways you can lower your STI risk.

“How do you talk more openly with your partner about birth control and STIs?”

—Jack M., Metro State University, Minnesota

Talking about STIs and birth control with a partner can be difficult. It can be helpful to think about why these topics may be hard to bring up:

• Feeling like you don’t know enough about the issues
• Different cultural or family backgrounds
• Feeling embarrassed about sexual experiences
• Varying levels of comfort with the topic
• Feeling uncomfortable with your own sexuality

Here are some ways to be more open with a partner about these topics:

Acknowledge that discussions about sex, including birth control and STIs, can feel awkward or difficult. You could mention that it has been hard for you in the past, or that it still is hard, but that you value the conversation because you have felt closer or more comfortable after discussing it.

Bring it up in the context of a class you’re taking or article you may have read. This is a nonthreatening way to raise these topics with a partner.

Ask your partner in a neutral place how they feel about birth control and STIs. It’s better to keep this conversation away from the bedroom or wherever you might have sex.

Let your partner know how important this conversation is to you. Talk about how much you value and want to hear about their thoughts and experiences.

Discuss it in the context of your health and any concerns you have. Alternatively, bring it up in the context of a friend or someone else you know (you don’t have to use names).

Since not everyone is comfortable with these topics, it may not be something that your partner can be open about in just one conversation. It may take time and trust to build up to these conversations.

	The counselor Joleen M. Nevers, MAEd., CHES, AASECT, is a certified sexuality educator and the health education coordinator at the University of Connecticut.

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If you’re anticipating sex with a partner, discussing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) probably isn’t part of the fantasy. But those conversations are important. They may help you get the information you need to make informed decisions and set boundaries that work for you.

Like most things, talking about safe sex and STIs gets easier with practice. The more we normalize openness and honesty about sexual health, the less we’ll fear other people’s reactions. The fact that STIs are transmitted through sexual contact does not make them shameful. We all have a role in reducing the stigma. (And as much as conversation matters, always protect yourself. Any sexual activity involving physical contact with another person involves risk.)

Insist on using a condom [Part 1]

Hey, we need a condom.

Oh, it's OK, I don't have anything.

I don't have sex without a condom.

Well, it just doesn't feel the same…

I don't have sex without a condom.

Let's go get some.

Using condoms and latex dams

• You always have the right to protect your health. Even if your partner says they do not have any STIs, it makes sense to insist on using condoms and/or latex dams. Latex dams, also called dental dams, are thin sheets of latex used as protection in oral sex.
• Asking about STIs doesn’t mean you’re accusing your partner of lying. Most people who have an STI don’t know it. Even current test results don’t necessarily show recent infections. STI testing is not fully comprehensive.
• Saying “I don’t do this without protection” is a non-negotiable way to establish your boundaries. If necessary, repeat yourself using the same words.
• Sexual health requires open, honest conversation with your partner(s), and it’s OK to figure out together what that looks like. However, if a current or potential partner is dismissive or pushy, and does not respect your boundaries, they may not be a safe partner for you. No one should be pressured or shamed for respecting their own health or another person’s.

Appreciate that they practice safer sex

Here, I have a condom.

Oh awesome, you thought ahead. Thanks!

What if you have multiple partners?

Insist on using a condom [Part 2]

Do you have a condom?

Aren’t you on birth control?

Yes, but we still need protection. Sorry not sorry.

Don’t worry, I’m clear. Let’s just do it.

I’ve told you no. If you’re going to act like this, I’m out.

Insist on using a latex dam

Will you go down on me?

Sure! Hold on, let me grab a latex dam.

Really? I’ve never used one.

That’s the only way I do it.

OK. Show me how this thing works.

Disclosing an STI

• Telling a partner that you have an STI is necessary even when you are practicing safer sex (using a condom or latex dam). Otherwise, you’re not giving your partner the information they need in order to make the best choice for themselves.
• Anyone who discloses an STI should be respected for it, not shamed or judged. When these conversations become easier, we all benefit. Our silence and discomfort enables STIs to spread more widely. 
• If you have a STI, learn as much as you can about how your STI can be transmitted and how to reduce the risk; e.g., know which sexual activities are safer to engage in.

Talk about an STI [Part 1]

Here’s the thing. I got genital warts from my ex. It’s an HPV symptom.

I didn’t know HPV causes warts.

It doesn’t always, but it can.

Could I get it from you?

Yes, though the risk is lower with a latex dam.

Thanks for telling me. I really like you, but I’m sorry, I'm just not comfortable being sexually active with you.

Talk about an STI [Part 2]

Hold on…I want to kiss you but I have a cold sore right now. It’s caused by a herpes virus. No mouth stuff for me until it’s gone, and there will always be some risk, even when I don’t have a cold sore. But there’s other stuff we can do.

I have some ideas…

What if you’re disclosing an STI?

Getting tested

• In monogamous relationships, it is possible to have acquired an STI from past partners, an unwanted experience such as sexual assault, or possibly an infidelity. STIs may not show up right away. It is important to have a discussion rather than make assumptions about how the infection occurred.
• Talking about testing becomes easier when you make regular STI testing part of your preventative health routine.
• There are no tests for some STIs (e.g., HPV in men). Some tests are not routinely done (e.g. herpes).

Talk about getting tested [Part 1]

Let’s both get tested before we hook up.

I just did that a few months ago.

Cool. Let’s do it again so we’re both on the same page.

OK. I’ll make an appointment. I'll send you my results. 🙂

Me too. & for now let’s get sext-y. 😉

What if you need to talk about getting tested?

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