When to tell a partner
June 15th, 2008 | by admin | This can be a sensitive topic and knowing when to raise it is important. It’s best to let the friendship develop first, but it’s best not to wait until after you’ve become sexually intimate. Then, the issue can become tangled in feelings of anger and mistrust. Remember, telling a partner about herpes is only a small part of relationship building. This disclosure can enhance your honesty and openness, and demonstrate your ability to have and maintain an intimate relationship.
- Try role-playing with a trusted friend or relative. Practice saying the words out loud.
- Choose a neutral setting during a time when you won’t be distracted or interrupted. Be natural.
- Speak with confidence. You are not lecturing or confessing. You’re sharing personal information.
- Remain calm. If you are upset, a partner might think it’s worse than it is. Remember your delivery and body language becomes your message, too.
- Expect your partner to be accepting and supportive. You’re doing the best thing for both of you. People tend to behave as you expect them to.
