Sex talk is key to long relationships, say young survey respondents

The survey of more than 1,000 under-25s was carried out on behalf of the government's Chlamydia, Worth Talking About Campaign.

About 70 per cent of respondents said the most important indicator that a relationship would last was feeling comfortable discussing issues such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and sexual history.

Other milestones in a long-term relationship listed were meeting parents, which was mentioned by 66 per, and meeting friends, which was cited by four out of 10 young people.

The survey also revealed that many young people lacked the confidence to have open conversations about sex with new partners.

Three-quarters said they did not talk about STIs until after they had sex for the first time. A third of respondents said they felt uncomfortable asking a new partner to use a condom.

Dr Catherine Hood, a relationship expert and spokeswoman for the Chlamydia, Worth Talking About Campaign, said: "While many young couples realise the significance of being able to talk openly about accepting tests for STIs, sheer embarrassment is preventing them from doing so, and potentially risking their sexual health as well as the future of their relationship."