Whether you choose to have sex or not, it is important to be able to talk about sex. Having direct conversations about sex can be uncomfortable but it does get easier if you are confident about your facts. Bottom line: When it comes to sex, good communication is important, with friends, health care providers, parents and family, as well as your partners.

If a couple is going to have sex, it's important for them to talk things over first. They need to discuss topics like their sexual boundaries and how they can protect themselves. Talking about STDs is an important part of this conversation. Remember, though, that since others can't always be accurate about their STD status - especially because they may not even know they have one - using condoms for protection is very important.

Of course, if you have an STD, it's good to be honest. Not only will it help you take the right precautions to protect your health and your partner's health, it also shows your partner that you care about and respect him or her. Chances are, your partner will appreciate your truthfulness and reciprocate, and such honesty may even strengthen the emotional bond between you.