However long you have been together, it is important for you and your partner to be talking about sex. Discussing issues including contraception and infections are vital to a safe relationship but is not always easy to approach such sensitive or embarrassing subjects. Talking about them however can mean that you come to decisions that suit you both as well as meaning that you are protected from unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.

It is important not to wait until you are already having sex with your partner before you discuss these issues. By then, it may already be too late to avoid any infections. You might make hasty decisions in the heat of the moment or make choices that with hindsight you might regret. Being prepared and talking about these issues means that you can discuss condoms and any concerns you have about your partner’s sexual history. If you are close enough to be having sex, then you should be close enough to bring up your thoughts and concerns with your partner before having sex.

The hardest part may be starting the conversation but you might find that it brings you and your partner closer together and puts both your minds at rests. For instance, you may decide that you both wish to take an STD test before having sex. Even if you think there is no chance that you could have contracted an infection in the past or are displaying no symptoms of an STD, bear in mind that some infections such as Chlamydia can be symptomless and so it might be wise to take a Chlamydia test. You could go to a private clinic together to take these tests such as here at Same Day Doctor, where we offer confidential tests for any patient and appointments within 24 hours.