So I got tested last week ahead of schedule because I was having symptoms which were consistent with chlamydia.  The test was negative, and it was just an infection in my urethra.  None the less, this got me thinking about a question of etiquette.  There is only one person I could have gotten it from, given my recent tests and sexual history.  She is a provider.  If my test had been positive, I would obviously have told her, but my question is how to do so.  She is someone who (after we had both been treated) I would still have wanted to see again, and I was afraid that after a situation like that she would not want to see me again, even though we had both been treated.  So how would you providers like to be told something like this, and how would you hobbyists go about doing so.

Right now, I am just thanking god the test was negative and I do not have to worry about it.


Grand Poobah

First of all, if you always use a condom, and use it correctly, you have a 98% guarentee that you are NOT going to contract any STD's.  

That said...

I think if a gentleman, or lady, was in that sort of situation where they did contract an STD from a sexual partner, approching the subject with class is the #1 thing you should keep in mind.  If you have only been with one person, then maybe bring that person out to diner, or ask to meet in a quiet place where the two of you could talk privately.  Explain to that person that you've been to the Dr., the test results, and that he/she has been the only one you were intimate with.  If you are not salty about it, let the person know, because that will help them feel less embarrassed. If you have been with more than one sexual partner, then you'll have a lot of diners to buy, and a lot of people to "break it to gently."

I know that with Chlamydia, and some other STD's, if you go get tested, and come up positive for it, you will have to give the names and phone numbers of your recent sexual partners to the doctor.  I want to say it's a national health issue, and they are obligated to inform the other people that someone they recently had relations with was tested positive.  I don't believe they will say "who" it was, but they want to contact these people so that they can make sure they get tested as well.  It's considered a criminal act if you do not inform others who could have been infected by you.

Hope this helps!