Prioritizing Sexual Self-Care as We Transition to Summer: STI Screening and Communication Tips
As the weather gets warmer and we transition to a more “normal” way of living, I want to remind you all about the importance of sexual self-care.
STI screenings are often advertised as scary events, but are truly a way for supporting your continued pleasure alone and with partners. Many screening kits can actually be done at home, too!
A positive result isn’t the end of the world, or your dating and sex like. Standard screening panels don’t screen for herpes—so be sure to ask your partner if there aware of the herpes status or if they get cold sores. Know what you’re being screened for and what it means. And don’t be afraid to ask your partners for their screening histories!
Asking someone’s screening history isn’t a means of judgement, it’s asking them, “Do you care about your sexual health?”
If you’re hopeful for a more “normal” dating life this summer because you’re vaccinated, ensure that you’re prioritizing sexual self-care, too.