34: Casual Car Conversations: STIs, Testing & Acceptable Risk

You may not find it surprising but we talk about non-monogamy, relationships, sex and related topics A LOT, especially when we are driving or travelling.

We were having one such conversation recently and decided to record it as we felt our listeners would find it helpful to hear as we work through and discuss a situation that arose for us personally around possible STI exposure and how we might handle sharing how we feel about upcoming plans with friends.

In this episode we cover:

• The importance of regular testing and how often we get tested.
• What you need to test for.
• How you can contract certain STIs and how to reduce your risk.
• The science behind testing frequency and the incubation periods for some common STIs
• The concept of acceptable risk as it relates to sexual activities.
• How to incorporate sexual health and STI testing into your relationship agreements.
• How to share your personal boundaries around testing and agreements with possible partners.

We encourage you to do your own research, inform yourself, talk to your doctor, talk to your partners and figure out what’s right for you!

And as we asked during the podcast are these things you’ve considered and/or has this podcast changed what you think about wanting to be non-monogamous or in the lifestyle? Let us know in the comments!

Show Resources:

• Black Friday Poly Newbies Digital Course Offer at $27 for 6 months of access - ⁠https://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiesblackfriday⁠
• Health Line article on STI incubation periods - https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-does-it-take-for-std-to-show-up
• Understanding Risk By Sex Act - CATIE - https://www.catie.ca/safer-sex-guide/understanding-risk-by-sex-act
• T&A Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/taraandandre/⁠
• Looking for therapy? Reach out to host André Turcotte and book a consultation call at andreturcottepsych@gmail .com
• Struggling and need support? Reach out and book a free call with us: ⁠https://go.taraandandre.com/relationshiprescue⁠
• Let’s Talk Polyamory Facebook Group & Community - ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/letstalkpoly⁠
• Find out more about us and services, programs and more at ⁠⁠https://taraandandre.com/