5 P’s of Healthy Sexual Communication It’s important to talk to your partner before, during and after any sexual activity. Whether with a new partner or an existing partner, communication is key to a healthy sexual relationship. It may seem awkward to ask your partner these questions, but open conversation and peace of mind can help create an even more pleasant experience for you and your partner. Learn the five Ps of healthy sexual communication and how they can keep you safe and informed! Partners Practices Protection from STIs of STIs Past History Intention Pregnancy Partners | Practices | Protection from STIs | Past History of STIs | Pregnancy Intention If you plan on engaging in sexual activities with someone, it’s important to know their sexual history and if they currently have other partners. The more past and active partners you have, the more likely you are to both catch and spread sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Before sexual activity, consider asking your partner: Are you currently having sex of any kind with anyone? If yes, are your other partners having sex of any kind with other people? How many sexual partners have you had in the past three months? Understanding someone’s boundaries and expressing your own is important for both a respectful and enjoyable sexual experience. Talk to your partner about your non-negotiables before sexual activity. Remember to ask for consent frequently and communicate consent clearly. Consider asking your partner: What sexual activities do you NOT want to do? What sexual activities are you curious about? What sexual activities are you comfortable with? Are you okay? Is this okay? Practicing safe sex is important for both your physical and mental health. Have a conversation with your partner about how you plan to avoid getting and spreading STIs. If you are sexually active, it is recommended you test for STIs at least once per year. Before sexual activity, be sure to ask your partner: What measures do you take to prevent STIs? Do you use protection with other sexual partners? What methods do you prefer? Have you received the HPV, hepatitis A and/or hepatitis B vaccines? Have you used or are you using any HIV prevention medications? If you or your partner have tested positive for STIs in the past, you should communicate that information. Remember, it is illegal to knowingly spread STIs to a sexual partner. Be sure to ask about previous STI status to better understand your risk. Consider asking: How often do you get tested for STIs? When is the last time you were tested for STIs? Have you ever tested positive for STIs? If yes, which STI? Did you receive treatment and a subsequent negative diagnosis? If not, is your STI treatable? Curable? What measures do you take to protect others from getting this STI? Do you currently have any STI symptoms? If you can get pregnant, it is important to have a conversation with your partner about intentions whether it be prevention or conception. Consider asking your partner: What measures do you take to prevent pregnancy? What is your preferred method of preventing pregnancy? What would you do if we had an unplanned pregnancy? Having conversations about sex can feel awkward and difficult, but they don’t have to be. Lead with honesty and understanding as you both share. These necessary conversations lead to a safe and healthy sex life! Additional Resources American Sexual Health Association – “Talking About Sex” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – “Conversation Tips”
