Since decisions about sexual behavior are made by couples, communication between sexual partners is essential for preventing risky sexual behavior. In particular, teens who discuss contraception and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) with their partners before they engage in sex are more likely to use contraception when they do have sex, which can reduce their risk of unintended pregnancy and STDs. However, little research has looked at the characteristics of teens and their relationships that influence whether or not teens have such discussions. A greater understanding of the factors that influence teens' abilities to talk about contraception and STDs can aid prevention programs in their efforts to help teens improve their communication skills and learn how to negotiate sexual activity and contraceptive use. Using data from high school students, this "Fact Sheet" finds that only half of teens report discussing contraception or STDs with a partner prior to having sexual intercourse for the first time. Males, whites, and Hispanics are less likely to have these discussions, whereas teens who report higher levels of communication with their parents and engage in more dating activities with their partners are more likely to discuss contraception or STDs. (Contains 2 figures.) [This "Fact Sheet" is based on an article titled "Discussions about Contraception or STDs with Partners Prior to First Sex," published in the September 2007 issue of "Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health."]