While it may sound daunting to think about talking to your recent sex partners, perhaps also including your primary partner, and telling them that you've been diagnosed with an STD, it's important to let them know as soon as possible so they can get treatment, too. If these are people you have regular sexual relationships with, it can be even more important to discuss this because if one partner is untreated, many STDs can be passed back and forth indefinitely.

Remember, syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia are treatable STDs, where antibiotics work. However, if left untreated, syphilis can do extensive damage to your internal organs and neurological system, and gonorrheal and chlamydial infections can spread to other parts of your body. Talking to your partners about your diagnosis will not only reduce the stigma associated with getting an STD, but will help take care of the health of you, your sex partners, and the entire community.

You have to come to terms with your own diagnosis before you start talking to your partners. It's unrealistic to expect other people to understand if you're uncomfortable with the diagnosis yourself. How well-informed are you? Do you know the facts about STDs? You want to feel confident and knowledgeable before you explain the infection to someone else. You can also always call the CDC National STD Hotline with questions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 800-227-8922 or 800-342-2437. In addition to talking to you personally, they can mail you brochures and information to have on hand to give to your partners.

While some people may overreact, some won't bat an eye. Whatever happens, try to be flexible. This is about sexual health -- it's not a "whodunit" mystery. Keep your perspective: syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhea symptoms are annoying but harmless if you get proper treatment. If left untreated, not only can these infections wreak havoc on your body, but they can make it much easier to transmit HIV from sex partner to partner. It's time to take care of yourself and take care of your community. Talk to your partners today.

STDs can cause serious health outcomes for you and your partner(s). If you feel you may have been exposed to an STD it is important to remember that it is not enough for just you to get tested and treated.

Partner notification is the most direct way to stop the spread of HIV including other STDs. Partners unaware of their exposure to a STD or HIV benefit from being notified. Notification gives partners the opportunity to obtain treatment, early intervention, and may prevent them from developing serious or irreversible outcomes.

CNAP is a service, specifically designed to aid in notifying partners of HIV positive individuals. CNAP assists the partner notification system by providing information on HIV partner notification to the general public, including medical and social service providers and HIV+ individuals. CNAP can assist you or medical doctor in notifying your partners. Confidentiality is always maintained, in that no personal identifying information is ever revealed.