Having an STI conversation with your partner can be a bit uncomfortable. If you have been tested and the tests came back positive for chlamydia, that only makes the situation worse. So, what next? How do you break the news to your partner and get them to visit a doctor as well?
First, understand that chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections today. Also, note that chlamydia treatment is as quick and straightforward as taking some antibiotics. However, it’s best to find out as soon as possible if you’re infected as delayed treatment can lead to infertility in women, as well as other complications. Here is a guide on how to break it to your partner that you have chlamydia.
Switch the Roles
If you are not sure of how to handle the situation, try putting yourself into your partner’s shoes. Would you prefer someone being honest or hiding such a piece of sensitive information from you? Most people appreciate honesty, no matter how bitter it may seem at the moment. In this case, the condition affects your health and that of your partner as well, so it would be better if you take the responsibility of addressing the issue.
The More Direct, The Better
It does not help to sugar-coat the situation. All it does is increase the awkwardness of the conversation. Remember that this is someone you love and should be able to talk to about anything. Take a deep breath and bring up the topic of STIs. Mention that you went for the test after noticing a few symptoms and what the results were. Explain what the doctor informed you about the condition and why your partner should consider getting tested as well.
Allow the Conversation to Flow Naturally
This is not a lecture, and there is no point in making it seem too official. Although it is a serious discussion, don’t try to create a mood of panic. The idea is to bring up the topic so that both of you can discuss it, each one giving their opinion and listening to the other person’s suggestions.
Some conversations might follow the question and answer approach if that is the best way to address the concern. If your partner needs time to think about it, show some patience and consideration. Give them the space and time they need to wrap their thoughts around it, but be clear on the urgency of the matter.
Play an Advisory Role
Though you might not be an experienced physician, given that you already have adequate information in line with chlamydia treatment, you need to play the advisory role. You should not try to push an agenda but inform and allow your partner to decide on what to do. If there are educational pieces of equipment that your doctor has given you, make them available and suggest that your partner should take a look.
Some partners may be too shocked to want to listen further. In this case, avail any materials that will help them understand the STI, its causes and cures. Also, let your partner take their time to digest the information.
Give Room for Questions
Any STI issue has the potential of causing trust issues between partners. For this reason, make sure that you allow room for your partner to ask any question they feel will help clarify their thoughts. Be open to any type of question so that there isn’t much tension building in the room. Be as truthful as possible and avoid being unclear as this might raise more questions concerning how you got the STI.
Conclusion
In as much as being diagnosed with an STI can be stressful, understanding and knowing your partner’s relationship history might help make the situation less tense. The best thing is to be honest and straightforward, even if it will cause trouble in your relationship, and then make sure to seek treatment for the infection.
