Section 1
How can you begin the conversation?
Choose the moment
Talk before sexual activity, somewhere private and without time pressure.
Be specific
Discuss when you last tested, what was included and whether there have been new exposures.
Agree on protection
Decide which barriers and contraception you will use and what happens if protection fails.
Source: World Health Organization — Sexual healthCDC — Condom use overview
Section 2
What if one partner receives a positive result?
Focus on getting the right treatment, following partner advice and preventing reinfection. A result may not show exactly when an infection was acquired.
Do not share prescriptions or use leftover medicine. Ask the treating clinician who should be notified, tested or treated and how long both partners should wait before resuming sexual activity.
Source: World Health Organization — Sexually transmitted infections
Section 3
What if you cannot agree about testing or protection?
Every adult can set boundaries and pause or decline sexual activity. Consent must be freely given, specific and reversible.
Pressure, fear, intoxication or an inability to communicate can make valid consent impossible. If the conversation feels unsafe, step away and seek support from an appropriate healthcare, safeguarding or emergency service.