- Being in a new relationship is exciting, and it’s easy to overlook things about a partner or let them slide. While it’s great that you’re looking out for your safety, talking to your partner about getting tested could go one of many ways.
- Everyone is different, so it’s important that you ask them to get tested because you just want to be sure.
- Let them know that this isn’t an attack on them or their character, because some people have STIs and don’t even experience symptoms!
- Having an STI and not knowing about it affects treatment, and STIs can become STDs and cause lifelong health issues like cancer and infertility.
- Offer to take the test or show them the results of your most recent one (within the last six months).
- If they don’t want to take the test, swear their clean, or try tactics to persuade you to have sex (i.e. “trust me, I’d never lie to you” – a liar), remain grounded in your decision, express your discomfort, and leave, if necessary. Also, once you know your partner is clear, and you have proper birth control, you will be more comfortable being intimate.