I’m afraid to tell my new boyfriend I previously had an STI

I contracted genital warts about a year ago. I got treated and am in the clear. I recently started dating a man I met through the internet. He’s suggested that we both get tested, before starting a sexual relationship. I am worried, if he finds out about my STI, he will want to make a quick exit. What do you think?

>>Act honestly — it’s the only way. When you found out you had genital warts (human papilloma virus), no doubt you were very upset. You don’t say whether you were with one person, or if you were having casual sexual relationships. It doesn’t really matter now. The point is you were left with a virus and were treated.

Being in the clear doesn’t mean it is gone forever. You could have another flare-up. Hopefully, it won’t happen, but it would be unfair not to tell a new partner with whom you plan to be sexual. It is important to be transparent about your past sexual health.