Dear nats622,

People who have taken risks with unprotected sex or sharing needles should talk with their clinicians about getting tested for sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.

Talking to a partner about sexually transmitted infections is important, but it can sometimes seem embarrassing or difficult. 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.



• 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.



• Offer to be tested, too.

People who are sexually active can reduce their risk of getting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections by using condoms for vaginal sex and anal sex. Unprotected oral sex is generally lower-risk that unprotected intercourse. But partners can further reduce the risks of oral sex by using a condom to cover the penis or a Glyde dam, cut-open condom, or plastic wrap to cover the vulva or anus.

Planned Parenthood health centers provide testing, and local, state, and federal health departments offer free testing. To make an appointment at a Planned Parenthood health center near you, call 1-800-230-PLAN.

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.