When building a future with a loved partner, there’s one thing that people don’t usually ponder – STDs. Thinking about sexually transmitted infections is never a pleasant experience. But it can be even more challenging when you find out that your partner has actually given you an infection.
Whether you find out through an STD test or you get some symptoms, the discovery can be shocking. So, how do you handle the news, how do you take care of your health and your relationship? There are a few essential steps that can help you conquer the situation and come out stronger.
If You Haven’t Been Tested, Go for Screening
Obviously, there are two ways to find out something’s wrong – getting test results and observing some STD symptoms.
If the second scenario is the one that applies to you, the time has come to get tested. STD symptoms can be similar to those of various other conditions including urinary tract infections, thrush, etc. The only way to know what’s going on for sure is to get tested at a Singapore sexual health clinic.
STD testing is quick and easy. There are combined screening panels that can provide information about some of the most common conditions. Also, sexual health clinics have experienced consultants who can make screening suggestions based on your input about symptoms and sexual practices.
There is no need to worry about getting tested. The process is completely confidential and you’ll know the results within few days the latest. When you have this information, you can move on to the next step.
Go to Your Doctor
Your health should be your number one priority. That’s why seeing a doctor is more important than discussing relationship dynamics.
Many STDs are easy to treat with a round of antibiotics. Chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis are such infections. Even viral STDs can be addressed, as there are medications aimed at reducing the prominence of symptoms and helping the body cope with the pathogen.
The sooner you get started with treatment, the better.
STDs that remain in the body for prolonged periods of time can cause some serious issues. Untreated STDs can lead to chronic infection in the reproductive tract (of both men and women), potentially leading to infertility and other complications.
There’s nothing scary about a medical appointment. Even if you feel some shame, you should see a doctor. Medical professionals are used to such scenarios and they’ll probably offer reassurance and guidance.
Refrain from Having Sex
A general recommendation for people with STDs is to refrain from engaging in sexual activity until their doctor gives them the go-ahead.You may think that the fact both of you carry the infection means you can engage in intercourse. That’s not really the case.
It’s a good idea to refrain from all kinds of sexual activity. There are STDs capable of infecting the mouth, throat and rectum. This means vaginal, anal and oral sex are all off limits.Also, re-exposure to a pathogen can trigger a flare-up. Additionally, you don’t know if your partner may be the carrier of a second STD. That’s why safety should come first.
Talk about Your Relationship
Here’s one of the most difficult aspects of dealing with an STD – you will need to make some important relationship decisions.
Getting an STD from a partner could feel like a betrayal, even if they’ve gotten infected way before meeting you. As a result, you may start thinking about separation. Even if you don’t, it’s still possible to distance yourself and feel that something’s broken beyond repair.Having an open and honest conversation is one of the keys to moving forward, even if you don’t feel like talking and listening at the very moment.
If you have gotten tested for STDs in the beginning of your relationship, you will definitely feel the situation is a violation of trust. Give your partner a chance to explain themselves and let you know what has happened.It may be a good idea to wait a few days after getting the news to approach such a difficult topic. Time will give you an opportunity to calm down. Letting emotions subside before addressing the situation will let you discuss the issue in an open, honest and mature manner.
Finally, do educate yourself about STDs and how they spread before having the conversation. Anyone who lacks awareness is going to be gullible and easy to manipulate. A person who has been unfaithful will probably rely on untruths and some emotional blackmail to diffuse the situation It’s up to you to arm yourself with information and counter manipulation attempts.
When possible, get some emotional support in order to handle the crisis in the best manner. Having a friend or a relative by your side can help you feel loved and understood. It may even be a good idea to have someone by your side when confronting your partner. Confusion and vulnerability are common in that situation. Someone who is impartial and unaffected by the whole scenario will be capable of sound judgment and good advice.
If you have any worries about an STD, visit us or contact Shim Clinic today. We can consult you on symptoms and prophylaxis like HIV PEP, and HIV PrEP while also screening and std treatment option for your needs.