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Relationships

Thinking About Relationships

Deciding to be close with someone is a big step. Ask yourself: Are you emotionally ready? Do you feel safe? Are you able to talk openly about your boundaries and what matters to you?

If you’re thinking about having sex, it’s a good idea to learn how to protect your health and make informed decisions.

Communication

Communication is more than just texts and phone calls.  Good communication means being open about your concerns and respecting each other's feelings, choices, and desires. 

In some relationships, that might include talking about personal health, like getting tested for infections. Being honest helps build trust and respect.​

Talking STI Testing with your partner(s)

Talking to your partners about STI testing and your results is important. It helps you trust each other, make safe choices, and avoid spreading infections. It's also good for talking openly and having a strong relationship if you're in one.

Tips for opening the conversation about STI testing with your partner(s)

Tips on how to have a healthy and open conversation about your STI results:

Consent

Even if you’ve been with someone before, it’s important to make sure both of you are fully comfortable every time.
 

You always have the right to say yes—or no.

What is true consent?
Respect

If you have a partner who harms you physically, emotionally, or sexually or tries to control you, get help.

When should I get help?​
If you think you are in an abusive or unhealthy relationship.
If you think you have been coerced into sex.
If you need mental health counseling for any reason.
  • Crisis, Referral & Information Hotline: (410) 433-5175

  • Renewal Counseling Center: (410) 529-2151

  • The Family Tree: (410) 889-2300

  • Behavioral Health System Baltimore:
    (410) 637-1900

If you, or someone you know, has a problem with alcohol or other substances.
If you, or a partner, have an unplanned pregnancy.
Clinics where everyone can feel safe and respected.
  • Star Trak: (410) 706-6000

  • Chase Brexton: (410) 837-2050

© 2016 UChoose
 

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KnowWhatUWant.org was developed by the Baltimore City Teen Pregnancy Prevention Initiative with additional information provided by the Association of Reproductive Health ProfessionalsBedsiderThe National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy, and Planned Parenthood. All birth control photography is property of bedsider.org and used with permission.

Know What U Want is a project of the Baltimore City Health Department and The Family League of Baltimore with the support of Planned Parenthood of Maryland, The Maryland Institute College of Art, New Lens, The Abell Foundation, The Straus Foundation, The David and Barbara B. Hirschhorn Foundation and The Henry and Ruth Blaustein Rosenberg Foundation.

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