If you’re found that you have an STI (sexually transmitted infection) your healthcare provider can help you with partner notification: the process of letting your sexual partners know they might also need testing or treatment.

Why partner notification matters

Many STIs don’t show symptoms. Letting partners know is about giving them the chance to get tested, treated if needed, and protect their own health. It helps prevent STIs from being passed on.

There’s no shame in having an STI — they’re common and manageable, just like many other infections. Open conversations about sexual health help break down stigma and encourage care, not judgment. It’s community care in action.

How to have the conversation

Letting your partner/s know doesn’t have to be overly complicated.

Depending on your relationship, you might want to do it face-to-face, over a phone call, or a text.

You can also use anonymous services like Let Them Know or Better to Know (for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) to send an SMS or email.

The timeframes of who you need to notify can vary, so it’s a good idea to chat with your doctor about your particular situation.

The important thing is to pass on the name of the STI so they can get the right testing with their doctor. It’s helpful to reassure people that all STIs are treatable, and most are curable.

They might want to know things like:

• When you might have picked up the STI
• Whether you noticed symptoms
• What treatment looks like

You don’t have to have all the answers, but sharing what you know helps. Their doctor can guide them through the rest.

Language makes a difference

Avoid phrases like “I caught” or “you gave me.” They imply blame, which isn’t fair or useful. STIs are just part of being sexually active, they happen.

Instead, focus on clear, neutral statements:

• “I’ve just tested positive for chlamydia.”
• “My STI screen showed gonorrhoea.”
• “I’ve been diagnosed with syphilis.”

Straightforward, kind language works best. We’re all better off when we can de-stigmatise STIs together.

Care goes a long way

There’s no shame in having an STI. Letting partners know is an act of respect and care — for you, for them, for everyone. Partner notification just another way we look after community.