Healthier Scotland. Scottish Government

Couples

Talking about what you want

Good communication is the key to long, happy relationships. Feelings and circumstances change over time and you need to be able to talk about them.

This can range from talking about fun stuff like what turns you on to more serious matters like when you can stop using protection.

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Talking about testing

This can be a tricky subject for couples and some people might feel offended by talk of getting tested.

If you both really have each other's best interests at heart, you should know that getting tested for sexually transmitted infections is the loving, responsible thing to do.

Remember that many sexual infections are now easily treated.

Once you're both in the clear, you can look forward to changing how you have sex or starting a family with a whole load less worries to think about.

For more pointers on how to get started, see our section on how to talk about testing.

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When can you stop using protection?

You should only stop using protection, such as male and female condoms, when you're both sure that you are free of any sexually transmitted infections.

Just because you've been together for ages and both seem well or that you've had a few 'accidents' without getting ill doesn't mean it's okay to stop using protection. Some sexual infections are harder to catch than others and many can go undetected for long periods.

The only way to be completely sure is for both of you to get tested.

If you suspect the other person may be having an affair or may not have been honest with you about their sexual health status, it's best to keep on using protection and to practise safe sex.

It's up to you whether you stay faithful or not, but if you don't, make sure all your sex is safer sex.

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Getting pregnant

Depending on where you are with your relationship, pregnancy can be a dream come true or can come as quite a shock.

Either way, things will be much easier if you've taken the time beforehand to talk about having children.

Find more information on pregnancy and having children in our section on making babies.

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