Healthy intimacy rests on clear, freely given consent and honest conversation. These guides give practical words and frameworks you can use in real relationships.
3 in-depth guides in this topic.
Consent is a clear, willing agreement to take part in sexual activity, given freely by someone who is able to make that choice. It must be informed, apply to a specific activity, and can be withdrawn at any moment. Silence, pressure or a lack of resistance never count as consent.
7 min read
Talking about sexual health with a partner means discussing STI testing, contraception and personal boundaries before you become intimate, ideally at a calm, private moment. Using simple, non-judgemental phrases and sharing your own information first makes the conversation easier and shows care for both of you.
6 min read
Healthy boundaries are the limits you set about how you want to be treated, covering your feelings, body, devices and time. Stating them clearly and respecting your partner's limits keeps a relationship safe and equal. A partner who repeatedly ignores, punishes or controls your boundaries is showing warning signs of abuse.
7 min read
A four-step plan to understand STI testing, choose where to go, and walk in with the right questions.
4 steps · progress saved on this device
Learn what consent means in practice, then practise the conversations that keep a relationship safe and respectful.
4 steps · progress saved on this device
Yes. Anyone can change their mind at any point, including part way through. Once a person says stop, or makes it clear through their behaviour that they no longer want to continue, the other person must stop straight away. Continuing after consent has been withdrawn is not consensual.
A person who has had a drink may still be able to make a clear choice. But someone who is so drunk or high that they cannot understand what is happening, are slurring, unsteady, being sick or falling asleep cannot give consent. If you are unsure whether someone is able to agree, the safe and respectful choice is to wait.
No. Asking about STI testing is a normal, responsible part of looking after your health and theirs. Framing it around yourself, for example by saying when you were last tested, helps it feel like a shared decision. Most people appreciate a partner who takes their health seriously.
That is common, and it is not a sign that anyone has done something wrong. You could suggest testing together or separately before you stop using condoms. In many countries, including the UK, sexual health clinics are free and confidential, and home testing kits are widely available.
Wanting reassurance is understandable, but demanding access to a partner's phone, messages or location is a form of control. Healthy relationships allow each person privacy. If you feel insecure, talking about those feelings honestly, or with a counsellor, is a healthier step than checking up on someone.
It is normal for a partner to feel disappointed sometimes, but repeated anger, sulking, threats or punishment when you state a limit are warning signs. A caring partner may need time but will respect your needs. If you feel afraid, contact a domestic abuse helpline for confidential advice.