I feel every couple should have this conversation before engaging in sexual activity for the first time. STI are more common than what is reported and a lot of them may not show any symptoms.
The last thing you want is to transmit a disease to your partner. Talking about STI in this decade has become less of a taboo compared to the past and more people are getting tested these days.
This topic should be brought up in a private discussion before engaging in any form of sexual activity to prevent STI. Besides that, it is totally normal for the conversation to feel a little awkward but once you get it over with, the awkwardness disappears. You never know, your partner may be glad you brought it up.
Also, if you are found to be positive for a STI, it is very important that you tell your partner so he/she can get tested or treated. This is because your partner would have more likely gotten infected and if untreated, it can cause complications to your partner if untreated and potentially re-infect you even if you have been treated.
