But what if they say...

You’ve taken the first step to start the conversation about sexual health, but you get push back on getting tested and/or using a condom. Here are a few responses to common scenarios to help you keep the conversation going and to let them know that sex is way better when you’re protected.

Getting an STI Check

I'm 100% clear, I was tested a few years ago...

We need an STI test every year, let's book it in

couple

I’m scared to get tested, isn’t it painful…

STI testing is quick, and usually doesn’t hurt. Let’s go together?

If neither of us have symptoms then why bother getting tested...

Most STIs don’t have symptoms, and you don’t want to wait until your bits are on fire

I don’t want to get tested, I’m scared to find out if I do have an STI...

Not getting tested and giving it to me sounds even scarier. You know, all STIs are treatable.

I’m 100% clean. I was tested a few years ago...

First of all, STIs aren’t dirty. And second, let's book a test anyway.

Getting tested and having someone look at my bits sounds mega embarrassing...

Doctors and nurses do these tests all the time, it's normal to them. Let’s go together.

Using protection

We don’t need to use protection, I’m on the pill…

That’s good to know, but it won’t protect us from STIs

couple2

I’m not sleeping with anyone else…

Awesome, then we’ll use a condom to be extra safe

Condoms are a passion killer…

What about no sex? That’s a passion killer.

I don’t have a condom with me…

Luckily, I do [come prepared]

We won’t need a condom if I pull out…

Ahh yeah, we do. Ever heard of pre-cum?

It’s only oral sex, we can’t get an STI…

Actually, you can. Kiss me on the mouth for now and let’s get tested

I don’t do condoms...

You won’t be doing anything with me tonight if you don’t use one.

Let’s just see how it goes...

I’d prefer to avoid a weeks' worth of discomfort, antibiotics and stress thanks

I can't get hard or finish with a condom...

That sounds like a You problem, not a condom problem

Next Steps

Practice safe sex

If you're having sex, make sure you stay safe by getting your protection and contraception sorted. Learn more.

condoms

Getting tested

Once you're both on the same page, find out where to get an STI test, and what’s involved.