Partner Notification: The Importance of Communicating About STDs/STIs

Dealing with an STD/STI is tough. It can be embarrassing, frustrating, and even cause fear about your health. It's completely natural to feel that way. Seeking treatment for yourself is a top priority, but it's also important to notify any current or recent sexual partners you may have had.

Past Partner Notification:

By notifying past partners about your STD, you empower them to take proactive steps toward their health and well-being. Although it may be awkward and uncomfortable to talk to any past sexual partners, it's necessary to take that step as quickly as possible. Notification can lead to a reduced infection rate of 30%. 1

Since all STDs have different infection rates, it's important to know what you have so you can know how far back you should contact any individuals. For gonorrhea, it is suggested that you contact anyone within 2 months of testing. Chlamydia is up to 6 months before receiving a positive STD test.

Tracing for Other STDS

How to Start the Conversation

Starting the conversation about STDs may feel challenging, so here are some speaking notes to help guide you:

Choose the right moment: Find a time to talk without distractions. Whether meeting in person or over the phone, make sure it's a good time for a 10-20 minute conversation.
Speak from the heart: Begin the conversation with "I" statements to share your feelings and concerns. For instance, "I recently discovered I was diagnosed with [INSERT STD NAME], and it was recommended that my previous partners get tested as well. Most of the time, it doesn’t cause symptoms, so if you haven't had any, you should still be tested to be safe.”
Do your research: Share the information you have, and be ready to answer any questions they might have.
Respect their emotions and decisions: Embrace their reactions with empathy and understanding, knowing everyone responds differently.

Current Partner

Open communication is the key to maintaining a healthy and trusting relationship. If you've recently discovered that you have an STD, it's essential to have an honest conversation with your current partner about it. Notifying your partner about your STD status demonstrates your care and respect for their well-being, and it allows both of you to take the necessary steps toward protecting their health.

Here are some important points to consider when discussing STD testing with your current partner:

Encourage Testing: When you notify your partner about your STD, it's crucial to encourage them to get tested. STD testing is essential for early detection and treatment. It not only safeguards their health but also helps prevent the spread of infections to others. In most cases, presumptive treatment is an option for your partner.
Support and Understanding: Your partner may need time to process the news and decide their next steps. Be there to support them emotionally and reassure them that getting tested is a responsible and courageous choice.
Safety and Protection: The only way to be certain you won’t contract an STD again is to be in a mutually monogamous relationship like marriage. If you and your partner decide to continue engaging in sexual activities, make sure you understand what is safe with your contracted STD. For chlamydia and gonorrhea, you and your partner should always wait until 7-10 days after your antibiotic courses are completed to start having any type of sexual activity. If you want to be sure you no longer have an STD, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends testing for cure four to six weeks after treatment.

Telling someone about your STD/STI may feel daunting, but it's a pivotal step in making them aware of a possible health concern. Put yourself in their shoes. What if the roles were reversed? Wouldn't you want a past or current partner to be open and tell you about a potential STD? You might also consider how to communicate with them. A text might be the easiest for you, but again, put yourself in their shoes. Is a phone call or a face-to-face conversation even better? With an estimated 20 million new cases of STIs in America, it's important to be upfront and honest with any sexual partners.

Collage is here for you during this difficult time. There's no shame here; we're a safe, confidential space for you. If you or someone you know suspects they may have an STD, please reach out to one of our locations. We provided testing and treatment for the two most common STDs, chlamydia and gonorrhea, at no cost to you.

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