This Valentine’s Day, Honesty is Sweeter than Chocolate.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Whether you’ll be spending it with a brand new partner or one you’ve known for years, PPNYC wants to help you make sure the relationship is as enjoyable and safe as possible. How do you do that? Conversation of course.

When was the last time you had an honest conversation with your partner about sex? Or about STDs? Brought up something new you want to try? Or something that isn’t working for you?

If it was recently, good for you! If it wasn’t, well, don’t worry you’re not alone.

Our CEO Joan Malin has a great piece up at RH Reality Check and the Huffington Post on how to have difficult conversations, but we thought we’d pull the highlights out for you here:

Educate yourself. Whether it’s an STD risk or something new you want to try, know as much about a topic before you bring it up.

Do it with your clothes on. Even though it might be tempting, don’t wait until you’re in the bedroom to bring up a tricky topic. Instead pick a comfortable place, before you’ve gotten hot and heavy.

Break the ice. Telling your partner you’re nervous can be a great way to start. As can bringing up a recent study/statistic/story you’ve read or heard.

Be upfront. Don’t beat around the bush or be dishonest. Be as honest as you can.
Use humor. Yes, this kind of talk can seem weighty or serious, but it’s ok to laugh or use humor to lighten the mood.

Bring up something good first. Mention something you like about your partner first, before bringing up something that isn’t working for you.

Talk about protection, pleasure and problems. These open and honest talks aren’t just about the last time you got STD tested. You should be discussing what you like and don’t like, and what is and isn’t working for you.

Check out the full piece or the tips on our blog, and let us know what tips have worked for you!