Let’s get right into it. This blog is not about Valentine’s Day. No. Instead, this blog is about you. About what relationship dynamics look like to help you align with your healthiest self. Feel free to check off the things you’re already doing (yay!) and take note of the things you want to start doing better (you’ve got this).
Whether your relationship is monogamous, polyamorous, a situationship or otherwise, these are three signs of healthy relationship dynamics.
CONSENT
Consent is a choice you make without pressure, manipulation or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Silence is not consent. It’s always clearly communicated – there should be no question or mystery. It’s never implied by things like your past behavior, what you wear or where you go.
What That May Look Like: Consent is you having the final say on what happens with your body. It’s a resounding, vocal yes. It’s also changing your mind at any point. It’s Freely given, Reversible, Informed, Enthusiastic and Specific (FRIES).
HONESTY
Honesty can be difficult sometimes but it’s necessary to maintain a level of trust and respect in your relationship(s). Regularly communicate your history, beliefs, desires and needs. And if anything changes, communicate that to your partner(s) as well.
What That May Look Like: Hold yourself and each other accountable by getting regular STI testing. And if you have an STI, communicate that to your partner(s) upfront so they can choose necessary preventative measures or treatment for themselves.
CHOICE
Choice means having autonomy over your life and body. This can include being able to express as the gender you identify with, learning the real facts about sex and pleasure, having the knowledge and confidence to use preventative measures like condoms and dental dams, and having access to affordable reproductive (and general) health services.
What That May Look Like: The right to a safe and legal abortion, access to affordable birth control, and gender-affirming care/hormone therapy for trans patients (and more!) are all ways Planned Parenthood of Delaware advocates for your right to choose.
So this Valentine’s Day (and every day), focus on giving yourself and your partner(s) the power to create relationships that are built on consent, honesty and choice.
In the meantime, schedule an appointment at one of our four Delaware locations (Wilmington, Newark, Dover or Seaford) or call 1-800-230-7526. We're striving for a healthier Delaware.
Tags: Valentine, consent, condom, protection, selfcare