Every time I think of Get Yourself Tested that song, “Let’s Talk About Sex” by Salt-n-Pepa, pops into my head.   The lyrics make complete sense; they simply say, “let’s talk about all of the good and bad things about sex,” and the women in that group are referring to an important conversation people should have with their partners.

How easy is it to talk about the three letter word S-E-X? I think a few of us find it quite challenging. The awkwardness associated with discussing sex hangs over young people regardless of whether the word pops up amongst friends or family. I have always wondered why that is when sex causes some of the most common diseases in today’s society. (http://www.cdcnpin.org/stdawareness/gyt_campaign.htm)

We need to bring a change to this problem, to get more people comfortable about discussing sexual health concerns and issues. I believe we’d all be surprised what a small conversation could lead to, so I am going to provide a few talking tips all of us could use revolving around that three letter word “S-E-X.”

When talking to your parents:

  • Sit down in a room where you can speak to them without any interruptions.
  • Let them know you want to discuss something concerning your health.
  • Be honest and upfront. You can say something like, “I want to make an important decision about sex and I want talk to you about getting tested for STI’s.”

Visit Planned Parenthood for more resources and tips at www.plannedparenthood.org/teen-talk

When talking to your friends:

  • Try to keep the mood light and friendly.
  • Refer to something you may have seen on a popular television network regarding sex.
  • Be honest and encourage one another to get tested together.

When talking to your partner:

  • Have an idea why you want to discuss STI testing with them.
  • Be prepared for questions.
  • Honesty is important in all relationships. You may want to start your conversation like this, “I’m not sure how you may feel about STI testing, however I think it’s important for the two of us to consider getting tested.”

For more tips on how to get the S-E-X conversation going and staying calm and relaxed, please visit the websites provided below.

Planned Parenthood offers plenty of information regarding talking about sexual health with parents and teens.

Scarleteen, a website that can guide you towards topics for a conversation you may want to carry with your friends, parents, or health care provider.

Get Yourself Talking now, it’s never too late chat.