Bringing up the subject of STI's:You can be up front and blatantly ask (like a person without an anxiety disorder)You could start by talking about something you read online and feel out the situationYou could volunteer your own history of it, leaving the door open for them to answer.Strategies to Protect Yourself:Talk about using condoms with your partnerOffer to get tested before partaking in any activitiesAbstain until you are ready to do either option 1 or option 2

It seems like you're asking for advice on how to bring up the topic of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) with a partner, as well as strategies to protect yourself. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Bringing up the subject of STIs:

   • Be direct: If you're comfortable, you can directly ask your partner about their STI status. This approach requires confidence and a level of comfort with your partner.
   • Use an indirect approach: You could mention an article or news story you read about STIs to gauge their reaction and segue into the conversation.
   • Share your history: If you have a history of STIs, sharing this information can open up the conversation and give your partner an opportunity to share their own experiences.

2. Strategies to protect yourself:

   • Discuss condom use: Talk to your partner about the importance of using condoms to prevent the spread of STIs.
   • Suggest testing: Offer to get tested together before engaging in sexual activities. This can provide peace of mind for both of you.
   • Abstinence: If you're not ready to have the above conversations or if your partner is not willing to take these precautions, abstaining from sex is a surefire way to protect yourself from STIs.