STD testing in relationships planning unprotected sex

An  STD testing guide for long term partners

It isn’t uncommon for partners that have been together for many years to discuss the possibility of unprotected sex. Unprotected sex can be liberating and freeing, if you go about it in a safe and well thought out manner. Many people also find unprotected sex liberating and freeing, as well as the ultimate sign of their trust for their partner.
 

The Importance of STD Testing

If you have been with your partner for many years than you probably are comfortable with their sexuality and sex practices. The transition to unprotected sex can be mutually fulfilling and rewarding. Before making the transition however, you should have a frank conversation with your partner about STD’s. Many STD’s such as Herpes can remain dormant for years before surfacing or re-surfacing. Even though your partner feels that they are healthy, it is possible that they contracted an STD in a previous relationship without being aware of it. Because of this it is essential that you discuss STD testing with your partner. One way to approach this is by letting your partner know that you are concerned with your mutual safety and well being. Suggest that you accompany one another to your healthcare provider to get tested.

Testing for STD’s will affirm whether or not you are both free and clear to engage in unprotected sex. You should be aware however that no test is foolproof.  Many physicians test for STD’s simply by performing a visual examination.
 

What to Discuss

You should discuss your sexual history with your partner and vice versa so that you are both aware of any potential dangerous activity that may have resulted in transmission of an STD. Once you have done this also confirm with your physician what your exact risks might be. Because some tests will not pick up an STD the first time, you might consider getting tested once over three different intervals spaced a few months apart, which will provide better results in some instances than a one time shot.

Also be sure to discuss blood tests as well as a physical examination from your healthcare provider. You should also discuss the number of partners you have had with your healthcare provider, though it is not necessary to discuss this with your partner necessarily.

Preparing for the STD test results

Before getting tested it is also important that you discuss what will happen if one of you comes up positive for an STD. While it is likely that you will both be free and clear of disease, it is also important that you remember that STD’s are relatively common and it is likely that one of you or even both of you may have a disease. If this is the case, you can plan out ahead of time what your course of action will be so the two of you are not surprised by any results and so that you are able to keep a level head and calm perspective should a result come back positive.

If you are both tested and your results come back negative, don’t forget to reaffirm your commitment to one another before deciding to have unprotected sex. Remember that if either of you were to have sex with another person even one time, you may contract an STD and put your unprotected partner at risk. Be sure that you are open and honest with each other and agree to let the other know if you do have sexual relations with anyone else to keep your unprotected partner safe.

Sexual intimacy without protection can be rewarding and fulfilling when two partners make a commitment to each others safety, health and well being. Remember to keep the channels of communication open with your partner, and you’ll find the transition goes smoothly and successfully.