Whether it’s your first sexual experience or you’ve had multiple partners, talking to your partner about sexually transmitted infections (STDs) can feel awkward and intimidating. Still have a conversation about it STD testing shows that you care and are responsible for the sexual health of you and your partner. Such a conversation can even bring you closer. Here are some tips for handling a conversation about STD testing with your partner.
Conversation starters
The first step in understanding how to ask someone to get tested is knowing when to start the conversation. The best time to start a conversation about getting tested is before you have sex with a new partner for the first time. Of course, if you go into the conversation just wondering how to ask someone if he or she has an STD, it may not come across well. Being so blunt can be offensive, increase the possibility of dishonesty, or endanger the sexual health of you and your partner. If you’re feeling anxious, try one of these conversation starters. They may seem strange at first, but they will do a great job of engaging you in the conversation.
- It is difficult to discuss this issue, but I care about you and believe it is necessary. What do you think about taking an STD test together?
- I love spending time with you, and before we take our relationship to the next level, I wanted to talk about STD testing.
- I was recently tested for STDs. Have you undergone a test?
Things to keep in mind
Getting tested means facing the possibility that you may have an STD, which can cause anxiety. Here are a few things to keep in mind during the discussion.
Stay positive
Getting tested for STDs does not mean you are cheating or not trusting your new partner or spouse. What matters is that your partner has safe sex and protects your sexual health. Stay positive to ease tension on the subject and put your partner at ease.
Consider context and timing
When discussing STD test results with your partner, avoiding distractions is crucial. Choose a private location where you both feel calm and comfortable. Turning off cell phones and the television can help reduce disruptions during such a conversation.
Excercise
Although it may seem strange at first, it’s a good idea to practice how you want to approach the topic with your partner. Learning how to communicate about STDs with a new partner can be challenging, but repeating the words and phrases out loud can help ease your fears.
Inform yourself
Understanding the facts about STDs can reduce anxiety during the conversation with your partner. For example, in the US there are approx 20 million Annual STD cases. Knowing your facts can help you see how each STD varies with the underlying condition myths and misconceptions.
What to do if your partner tells you that he or she has or has had an STD
It’s the news you didn’t expect to hear. Various thoughts can flood your mind. If they have an STD, try to remain calm and reassure them that they are not alone. If they had certain STDs, they should get tested again due to the high risk of reinfection. The best course of action for your partner is to follow the doctor’s treatment plan. Following the treatment plan involves taking medication every day to prevent future outbreaks.
Make collaborative testing a priority
Getting tested for STDs can be fun and spark intimate feelings for you and your partner because it shows that you are responsible and caring. Before you take a step toward your first intimate experience, you need to take the crucial step: get tested. STD priority cares about your sexual health and offers a discount to couples who get tested together!