Genital human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted diseases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In fact, the CDC reports that at least 50 percent of all sexually active people will be infected with HPV at some point in their lives. However, despite it being so common, it is still difficult to tell a potential partner you have HPV. Feelings of shame or embarrassment make the process difficult enough, but being fearful of how the other person will react can make it worse.
Instructions
1. Educate yourself about HPV. Although you may already have done this when you were first diagnosed, it is important to make sure you are as educated as possible. That way, you can feel confident and prepared when the other person asks questions.
2. Educate yourself about the specific type of HPV that you have. Some types of HPV, such as the types that cause genital warts, may be considered to be more serious than others. Talk to your doctor about the type of HPV you have to get as much specific information as possible.
3. Plan the conversation in advance. Gathering informational materials, such as pamphlets, about HPV may be useful. Also, remember not only to plan the content of the conversation but the location and setting as well. Be sure to have the discussion in a quiet place that will be free from interruptions and where both parties will feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible.
4. Have the conversation before becoming intimate. Not only is that the most ethical thing to do, but potential partners will be much more likely to be accepting and supportive if the conversation takes place before any type of sexual acts take place.
5. Give yourself a pep talk. It is cliched, but true: If a person genuinely cares for you, he will not make you feel ashamed or embarrassed about having HPV. In fact, many people these days already are aware of how common HPV is and having it may not carry as much of a stigma as you think. Furthermore, remind yourself that if a person does treat you poorly after finding out you have HPV, that is most likely not someone you should be interested in having a relationship with.
6. Be sure to cover the most important facts. If the person you are telling is a potential sexual partner, she will be most concerned with prevent herself from contracting HPV. As unpleasant as it is, it is important to discuss the fact that although condoms can reduce the risk of transmitting HPV, condoms are not as effective at preventing the transmission of HPV as they are other sexually transmitted diseases. It is important that she knows that having intercourse with you will not be without risk. Knowing what may happen if she does end up contracting HPV from you also is important.
7. Be patient. The other person very well may need some time and space to sort out his own feelings about the subject and decide how he would like to proceed. Do not rush the other person, and make sure he knows he can turn to you if he needs any additional information or has any questions.
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