Condom Negotiation
Sometimes talking about using condoms can seem awkward, especially if they're someone you don't know very well. However, respect your body, and remember that it's your right to demand a condom is used, or to not have penetrative sex if your partner won't.
If they don't bring it up, make sure you do - it may seem hard at the time, but at least you'll know that you were safe. Below are some scenarios with ideas of how to tackle them:
Sex with condoms doesn't feel as good. I can't feel anything with one on...
...sex may feel different with a condom, but it doesn't have to be unpleasant.
I know if we use condoms I'll feel a lot safer and more relaxed, and that
will make sex more enjoyable for both of us.
Don't you trust me?
...we may both believe we're disease free and trust each other, but people can
have an STI and not know it. We may not be able to trust our past partners. I
trust that using a condom will protect us both.
My HIV test was negative...
...HIV is not the only infection I'm worried about. There are several STIs
that may not have any visible symptoms even if you are infected. A condom
will help protect us both from getting an STI.
I love you. If you really loved me, you wouldn't ask me to use a condom...
...love isn't the issue. Getting a sexually transmitted infection is. I
think if you loved me you would be more concerned about protecting us both
from infections.