when to get a pelvic exam...

[graceful-wraith.livejournal.com]

hi, im Cassie, im 17, and this is my first post.
i have had my period since i was 14 and im regular as the moon.
im VERY lucky, as in i dont get cramps, PMS, heavy flow, or any of the unplesent stuff. i am not at all sexualy active, and i have never had a bactreial, yeast, or uniary trac infection.
the problem?
when should i get my first pelvic exam. i have heard when you become sexaly active (preferable when you plan to start) or when you turn 18.
is this a good rule of thumb?
in the next month or so i may be visiting a boy that i am in a non-relaionship with...as in, we would be a couple but we are far apart. if something were to happen (if if if) should i go ahead and get an exam before i go?
condoms are a no brainer.
also any tips on asking your potential partner to get tested?
its something that i will ask him to do, no if ands or buts. but how does one get to that conversation tacfuly? he has been sexualy active and i havent...

if this isnt relavent you can trash it.
i would appriciate any advise, information, ect...
thanks!