Relationships and protection
Relationships come in all shapes and sizes
Some have relationships with a single person. Others have multiple relationships but only share some feelings and sex with one partner, while some prefer a more open approach to sex and relationships. If you are in a relationship with several people and have sex with several different people, you may want to think about how you want to protect yourself against HIV and other STIs. Do you use condoms with everyone or just some? Perhaps you are content with taking PrEP and getting tested regularly?
For many, condom use is a natural part of the equation in multi-partner relationships and they simply continue to use them. Others choose to stop using condoms with one or more partners while continuing to use condoms with others.
A common strategy for two or more people who want to have sex without a condom is to first use a condom for a period of time while they get tested together to find out their HIV status and whether they have any other STIs. Once any infections are treated or well managed with antiviral drugs, they can choose to stop using condoms within that constellation, while continuing to use condoms for sex outside the relationship.
Sometimes a relationship or arrangement doesn't quite work out as planned. Having sex with someone outside the relationship or breaking an agreed rule can put your partner(s) at risk of passing on an STI. That's why it's important to agree on the rules that apply both inside and outside the relationship. If you make an agreement, consider from the outset how you will deal with it if one of you breaks it. Having the courage and openness to talk about any sexual contacts outside the relationship is a way of showing consideration.
