In many cases, people find themselves facing unexpected situations, and one of those can be dealing with a sexually transmitted infection (STI). These infections are usually the result of having unprotected sex, regardless of whether you have one or multiple partners. The good news is that STIs are treatable and don’t have severe consequences if addressed early.
If you suspect you’ve contracted an STI, here are the crucial steps to follow:
1. Practice Safe Sex
The first thing to do if you think you have an STI is to protect yourself and your partner(s). Avoid spreading the infection by practicing safe sex, even if you believe your partner might already be exposed. Remember, not all infections are transmitted every time you have sex.
2. Get Tested
To stop worrying and to be sure, get tested. Symptoms and online information aren’t reliable for a diagnosis. Visit a clinic or a healthcare provider and explain why you think you might have an STI, how long you’ve suspected it, and when you were last tested. You might need to retest to confirm the results.
3. Inform Your Partner(s)
If you test positive, it’s important to tell your sexual partner(s) so they can get tested and treated too. Though the conversation might be tough, it’s necessary. If it’s too difficult to tell them directly, you can do so anonymously, or ask your doctor to help inform them.
4. Start and Complete Treatment
Begin treatment immediately and make sure to complete it, even if you start feeling better. Stopping early could lead to antibiotic-resistant infections, making them harder to treat. If diagnosed with HIV or HPV, which are incurable, work with your healthcare provider to manage the infection and maintain your health.
Getting an STI doesn’t mean your life is over. Even with incurable infections, you can still enjoy a healthy sex life by managing the condition effectively. If you suspect you have an STI, take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your partners.