Patient information

Both sexes

"How do I tell my partner I think I have a problem?"

If you think you have a genital infection, it is important to tell your sex partner, so that they can also get treated. It’s both common sense and fair. If your partner also has the infection and doesn’t get treated, you could get re-infected. * Your partner will need a check-up even if they have no symptoms*.

It may be difficult to tell your partner. * Try to choose a good time to raise the subject* – when you are both relaxed and unlikely to be interrupted. Try sharing the responsibility. It is better to use phrases like "what are we going to do about this?" rather than "what are you going to do?" Be aware that your partner might have become infected many months ago from a previous sex partner without even being aware of it.

Consider going to a sexual health clinic or to a doctor together. You may be seen separately, but you can support one another and share the advice and information you receive about your sexual health.

MeWard 2011

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