It’s also key to have honest conversations with your sexual partners. “The burden shouldn’t be all one-sided,” says Dunne. “An open dialogue and sexual health transparency with whomever you choose to have sex with is vital if you want to completely remove those worries.”
How to talk about sexual health with your partners
Of course, having honest conversations about your sexual health is easier said than done. In fact, for many people, sitting down and talking about STIs and safe sex may feel downright intimidating – or even a little mood-killing.
Here are some tips on how to start prioritising openness in your sexual relationships:
If you’re using dating apps, include something about sexual health on your profile
“Sharing information that’s so personal, such as disclosing your sexual health status – especially on a dating app – can be scary and feel stigmatising, but to keep yourself and others safe, it’s important to be honest and open,” says Dunne.
She adds: “This doesn’t necessarily have to mean you share your actual status, but you can put something as simple as ‘sexual health advocate’ on your profile.”
Get clued up
Before you have a conversation, it’s important that you yourself are in the know when it comes to sexual health and practicing safe sex. Many people assume that sexually-transmitted infections (STIs) are only spread through certain sexual behaviours like having multiple partners, but that isn’t true. Most STIs are spread through sexual contact with an infected person, but some infections are transmitted in ways you may not expect. This includes kissing!
Keep the conversation light and easy
While it’s good to educate your matches, there’s a difference between disclosing and debating – try to keep it light and straightforward.
“Creating a safe space with a potential partner to talk about STIs will help remove the stigma and shame,” she says. “When discussing initially, refrain from going into too much detail – but keep it light, casual and easy. You don’t have to go into details about where you contracted any STIs, but it’s good to be open about your experiences, in order to expect the same in return.”
Try the tech
If conversations are feeling really awkward, there is another option. Sexual health sharing app Zults allows you to download your results and send them to your partner via a link, QR code or bluetooth, so you can avoid the question-and-answer session all together. Handy.
Remember, if your partner isn’t up for the conversation, they may not be the right partner for you
“Continuing a sexual relationship with someone who will not discuss their sexual health will ultimately come down to a personal decision,” says Dunne. “Make sure you are informed of the risks involved and always take steps to protect yourself.”