Dear babygirl88,

HPV — the human papilloma virus — is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the world. In the United States alone, an estimated 20 million people have genital HPV, and more than 6.2 million people contract it each year. Some types of HPVs cause genital warts.

But even though a lot of people have genital warts, talking about them — and other sexually transmitted infections — can be tough. Here are some tips to help people start this conversation:

• Think about all the reasons why you want to talk about sexually transmitted infections with your partner.
• Practice having a discussion with your partner. What do you want to say? What are all the possible things your partner could say?
• Try to have this talk when you both have time and privacy.
• Before talking agree to allowing yourself to talk for five, 10, or 15 minutes — whatever you agree upon — without interruption. Then your partner gets to talk for the same amount of time without interruption. This will allow both of you to say everything you want to say about how you feel about this.
• Remember that your partner cannot read your thoughts. It's important to talk about what you want and how you feel. It's important to listen to your partner, too.
• If you are feeling nervous or embarrassed, tell your partner. Maybe your partner feels the same way you do. Sometimes sex is hard to talk about, and it's okay to admit that.
• Ask how your partner feels about this conversation. Being honest with each other can make a relationship more fulfilling.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.