Long-Term Relationships

For women who are in long-term relationships in which both you and your partner are monogamous (having sex with only each other), there is a lower risk for becoming infected with a sexually transmitted disease. However, whenever you have unprotected sex there is some degree of risk.

If you are in a long-term relationship and either you or your partner are diagnosed with an STD, that doesn’t necessarily mean someone has cheated. Some STDs can occur without any symptoms, and many remain in the body for years (and yes, there are those partners who aren’t always honest about having sex with other people). It’s very important to talk honestly with your partner if either of you is diagnosed with an STD. Both of you will need to get screened. Talk with your health care provider about testing and about treatment.

When you are in a long-term relationship, remember:

• Having unprotected sex puts you at risk.
• Don’t assume either faithfulness or unfaithfulness.
• Talk honestly with your partner.
• Both of you need to be tested.
• Talk with your health care provider.

Click on the link below to watch a video

Taking Care of Myself - One Woman's Story