How to Talk About STDs With a New Partner: 5 Useful Tips

How to Talk About STDs With a New Partner: 5 Useful Tips

Some conversations are easier to have than others. Unsurprisingly, many people are hesitant to bring up the subject of STDs with their significant other –– even if they have reason for concern. We understand that sexual wellness is a sensitive topic, and new couples hardly want to think about the possibility of venereal disease as they become romantically involved. Yet, more and more people recognize the need for transparency regarding STDs and STD testing. To help you out, here’s a quick look at how to talk about STDs with a new partner:

Start Early

Is your well-being important to you? If so, then you need to make it a priority to speak with your partner about STDs as soon as reasonably possible. No, you don’t have to grill someone on their sexual history the moment you meet them. But you shouldn’t wait until after you’ve had a sexual encounter with someone to ask if they’ve been tested. The longer you put it off, the more difficult the conversation will inevitably be.

Share Before You Ask

When talking about STDs with a new partner, the concept of quid pro quo can help you establish a functioning dialogue. Rather than asking (or demanding) someone to divulge intimate details, begin by offering up some information yourself. Not only is this a reasonable way to get a conversation going, but it will let your partner know exactly what to expect.

Spare the Judgement

Having an STD doesn’t make someone “dirty.” Sadly, a number of nasty stigmas surround individuals who have or, have had, an STD. Take note now that STD contraction is a matter of circumstance –– and not a reflection of a person’s character. You wouldn’t judge someone for having the flu, after all.

Learn the Facts

It’s great to value your wellness and the wellness of your partners. Nevertheless, if you don’t understand some of the basics about STDs and STD transmission, you could be setting yourself up for an embarrassing misstep. Check out our list of FAQs and make sure you’ve got your facts straight before you make any big decisions.  

Be Honest

In the end, talking about STDs doesn’t have to be a nerve-wracking experience. Being honest and forthright about your concerns and history with STDs will go a long way toward establishing trust. Telling someone you have an STD is never easy, but it’s the right thing to do. (In addition, lying about not having an STD could even land you in legal trouble in some scenarios.) Furthermore, the more people talk about STDs, the more we all can work to break down negative sexual stigmas and bust STD myths.