What Should I Do After I Get Diagnosed with an STI?

Getting a sexually transmitted infection (STI) diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t define you. And you’re not alone! STIs are incredibly common and in most cases, totally manageable. 

If you’ve just been told you have an STI, here are three things to keep in mind so you can move forward with confidence, clarity, and care. 

1. Get clear information and ask questions

Now that you’ve received a diagnosis, talk to your provider (if you don’t have one, you can make an appointment to talk to one at your nearest The Right Time health center) and ask any questions you have. This could include:

• More details about the infection and how it’s treated.
• Whether you need to avoid sex until the treatment is complete.
• If your partners should be tested or treated too.
• If and when you need to get tested again after you finish treatment.
• Which methods of birth control can reduce STI transmission.

Treatment looks a little different depending on the infection. It can include antibiotics for bacterial STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis. In these cases, it’s important to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better. For viral STIs, like herpes or genital warts, you might be prescribed an antiviral medication to help manage symptoms, reduce outbreaks, and lower the risk of passing the virus on. For HIV, antiviral medications can help support your immune system and reduce the amount of virus to undetectable levels. 

2. Communicate with partners (past and present)

Telling a partner that you’ve been diagnosed with an STI can feel hard. But you can do hard things! And remember, STIs happen to lots of us. LOTS OF US. 

Start by choosing a calm and private setting, where you and your partner(s) feel comfortable having an open and honest conversation. Then, just tell the truth. Some people like to guide the conversation by reviewing information about testing and treatment options from credible resources (like The Right Time!) with their partners on their phones. 

3. Take care of yourself and keep it in perspective

Getting an STI doesn’t change who you are. Many people experience this at some point, and with treatment and care, you’ll feel like yourself again soon. Try to see this as a moment to learn more about your health and what helps you feel safe and confident. You’re taking care of yourself, and that’s something to always be proud of.