I’m not in a committed relationship right now, so I don’t have to deal with this issue. But I find this a very interesting question, and I admire those who have told their partners and who are receiving support from them.
But here’s my concern; I’d really like to hear what others have to say about this. Most people I know are inveterate gossips, both men and women. I suspect, or at least fear, that this is even true of the women I’ve been involved with. Accordingly, my rule of thumb has always been: If I don’t want others to know about it, don’t tell a soul. Simple information control. Honestly, I wouldn’t mind if my closest friends knew that I PEed, and I would really prefer for my partner to know (and to be into the idea). But I just don’t trust people’s loose lips.
Have any of you had this experience: You’ve told a significant other, or a close friend, only to find that, in time, the information has trickled through your community of friends and acquaintances?