Dating can be a tricky business, especially when it comes to discussing sensitive topics like sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you discover that you or your partner has an STI, it's important to talk about it as soon as possible. Be honest and open about the situation, even if it's difficult. Research the STI so that you can explain how it is transmitted, its symptoms, and its treatment.
For those living with herpes, it may be helpful to join a dating website for people with herpes to connect with others who understand and support your journey. Most STIs can be cured with medication, while some may require lifelong treatment. It's also possible to become infected with the same STI again after it has been treated. The more you learn about STIs, the more you can relax about them. Get tested regularly and stay away from people with crack-use habits, and you should be fine. It can be difficult to know what to do if your partner hasn't told you that they have an STI.
It's also important to know how to tell your partner if you have an STI. When I was dating, I was always honest about my status and found that most of the guys who swiped right appreciated my sincerity. In all my years as a dating coach and all my sexual partners, I've only met one person who had a herpes outbreak, a few people with HPV, and one person who had chlamydia. Sometimes you may date someone who has a reputation for sleeping around. In this case, it's important to find the right time to talk about STIs and safe sex.
It can be frustrating when you find out that your partner has an STI and didn't tell you.
