A:  Having an open line of communication is a crucial part of a healthy relationship. One option is to be upfront with your partner and start the conversation by stating that it is important to you to practice safe sex and use condoms 100% of the time. If your partner gives you pushback, reinforce that condoms not only prevent STIs, but also help to prevent pregnancy. If your partner continues to insist that condoms are not necessary, perhaps this is a sign that you need to reassess if this person is right for you. A healthy relationship is one in which both partners are respectful of each other and boundaries set by one another should be respected on both sides.