Partner Notification: The Importance of Communicating About STDs/STIs

Dealing with an STD/STI is tough. It can be embarrassing, frustrating, and even cause fear about your health. It's completely natural to feel that way. Seeking treatment for yourself is a top priority, but it's also important to notify any current or recent sexual partners you may have had.

Past Partner Notification:

By notifying past partners about your STD, you empower them to take proactive steps toward their health and well-being. Although it may be awkward and uncomfortable to talk to any past sexual partners, it's necessary to take that step as quickly as possible. Notification can lead to a reduced infection rate of 30%. 1

Since all STDs have different infection rates, it's important to know what you have so you can know how far back you should contact any individuals. For gonorrhea, it is suggested that you contact anyone within 2 months of testing. Chlamydia is up to 6 months before receiving a positive STD test.

Tracing for Other STDS

How to Start the Conversation

Starting the conversation about STDs may feel challenging, so here are some speaking notes to help guide you:

Choose the right moment: Find a time to talk without distractions. Whether meeting in person or over the phone, make sure it's a good time for a 10-20 minute conversation.
Speak from the heart: Begin the conversation with "I" statements to share your feelings and concerns. For instance, "I recently discovered I was diagnosed with [INSERT STD NAME], and it was recommended that my previous partners get tested as well. Most of the time, it doesn’t cause symptoms, so if you haven't had any, you should still be tested to be safe.”
Do your research: Share the information you have, and be ready to answer any questions they might have.
Respect their emotions and decisions: Embrace their reactions with empathy and understanding, knowing everyone responds differently.

Current Partner

Open communication is the key to maintaining a healthy and trusting relationship. If you've recently discovered that you have an STD, it's essential to have an honest conversation with your current partner about it. Notifying your partner about your STD status demonstrates your care and respect for their well-being, and it allows both of you to take the necessary steps toward protecting their health.

Here are some important points to consider when discussing STD testing with your current partner:

Encourage Testing: When you notify your partner about your STD, it's crucial to encourage them to get tested. STD testing is essential for early detection and treatment. It not only safeguards their health but also helps prevent the spread of infections to others. In most cases, presumptive treatment is an option for your partner.
Support and Understanding: Your partner may need time to process the news and decide their next steps. Be there to support them emotionally and reassure them that getting tested is a responsible and courageous choice.
Safety and Protection: The only way to be certain you won’t contract an STD again is to be in a mutually monogamous relationship like marriage. If you and your partner decide to continue engaging in sexual activities, make sure you understand what is safe with your contracted STD. For chlamydia and gonorrhea, you and your partner should always wait until 7-10 days after your antibiotic courses are completed to start having any type of sexual activity. If you want to be sure you no longer have an STD, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends testing for cure four to six weeks after treatment.

Telling someone about your STD/STI may feel daunting, but it's a pivotal step in making them aware of a possible health concern. Put yourself in their shoes. What if the roles were reversed? Wouldn't you want a past or current partner to be open and tell you about a potential STD? You might also consider how to communicate with them. A text might be the easiest for you, but again, put yourself in their shoes. Is a phone call or a face-to-face conversation even better? With an estimated 20 million new cases of STIs in America, it's important to be upfront and honest with any sexual partners.

Collage is here for you during this difficult time. There's no shame here; we're a safe, confidential space for you. If you or someone you know suspects they may have an STD, please reach out to one of our locations. We provided testing and treatment for the two most common STDs, chlamydia and gonorrhea, at no cost to you.

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What to Do When Friends and Family Are Pressuring You into an Abortion Decision

April 2, 2025

What do you do when those closest to you start pushing you toward a decision that doesn’t feel right? Pressure from family or friends to choose abortion can leave you feeling stuck, unheard, and unsure of what to do next. How can you hold firm in your decision while dealing with well-meaning but overwhelming advice? Here’s what you can do to navigate this difficult situation with strength and resilience. Mental Health and Pressure Your decision should be your own—one that isn’t influenced by guilt or outside expectations. Studies show that women who feel pressured into abortion are more likely to experience guilt, anxiety, depression, and other negative mental health outcomes. Protecting your mental and emotional health starts with making a choice that aligns with what you truly want. Ways to Handle the Pressure Since you understand why this decision needs to be yours, here are some practical steps to help you handle outside pressure. Give Yourself Time You don’t have to decide right away. Take a moment, think through your feelings, and give yourself the gift to reflect without feeling rushed. You're less likely to regret a decision made on your terms. Learn About All Your Options Abortion isn’t your only choice. Parenting and adoption are also possibilities, each with its own forms of support and resources. Learning more about these options can help you make an informed decision you feel at peace with. Set Boundaries It can be tough to stand your ground when others have strong opinions about your decision. Clearly expressing your thoughts by setting boundaries can help you avoid unwanted pressure. Letting others know you need time and space to think can help shift the conversation away from their influence and back to what’s best for you. Advice from a Third Party Getting a different perspective on your situation can be helpful when seeking advice from someone outside your inner circle. This could be a professional counselor, an online support group, or a caring team member at Collage . You deserve people in your life who want to understand you without judgment. You Are Not Alone Even if those around you don’t fully understand, there are people who do. A supportive environment can make all the difference as you navigate this decision. Collage is here to walk with you during this time. We offer lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited OB ultrasounds, pregnancy options information, and more at no cost so you can get informed and have the support you need to move forward with certainty. Schedule a confidential appointment today.

The Role of Support Systems When Considering Abortion

March 7, 2025

Discovering you’re pregnant when you weren’t expecting can feel like the ground has shifted beneath you. A flood of questions may rush in. What do I do? Who can I talk to? How will this change my life? In moments like these, having a strong support system can make all the difference. The people around you—family, friends, a partner, or trusted mentors—can provide clarity, encouragement, and resources to help you navigate your options. Why Support Systems Matter It’s easy to feel isolated during an unexpected pregnancy with high stress and emotions. However, decisions made in isolation can be overwhelming and may lead to regret. Having a support system allows you to process your emotions, ask questions, and consider your next steps with a clear mind. Those who care about you can offer reassurance and help you explore the emotional, physical, and practical aspects of your decision. Avoiding Pressure and Outside Influence Unfortunately, some women experience pressure from their partner, family members, or even friends to make a decision they aren’t comfortable with. A healthy support system respects your right to make an informed choice without coercion. If you’re feeling pressured, it’s essential to reach out to someone who will listen, not dictate. Support should come from those who uplift and empower you, not those who push you into a choice based on their preferences. Seeking Reliable Information It’s crucial to have access to accurate medical information about abortion, its risks, and its alternatives. A strong support system can help you connect with organizations (such as Collage ) that offer factual, judgment-free care. You can also seek help from professional counselors or a mentor, but ultimately, surrounding yourself with people who prioritize your well-being can bring insight and peace of mind to your decision-making process. We’re Here For You At Collage, we understand how important support is when considering your options. We offer free and confidential pregnancy services, including lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited OB ultrasounds, abortion information, and more so you can make an informed choice. Even if you don’t feel you have a support system in your life, you have one with us. Reach out today to learn more about how we’re here for you.

Why Does an Ultrasound Matter if I’m Considering Abortion?

February 13, 2025

If you’re thinking about abortion, an ultrasound is a crucial step to gather essential information about your pregnancy. It provides key details that can help determine which options are available to you and ensures your health and safety as you make this important decision. At Collage , we offer free limited OB ultrasounds to give you the clarity and support you need, as well as more information on your pregnancy options. Ultrasounds During Pregnancy An ultrasound is a diagnostic tool that uses sound waves to create detailed images of your body. These images provide vital insights into your pregnancy, helping you make an informed decision. Here are three critical pieces of information an ultrasound can reveal: 1. The Location of Your Pregnancy An ultrasound can confirm if your pregnancy is located in the uterus. Sometimes, a pregnancy can implant outside the uterus, typically in a fallopian tube, resulting in an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy is a serious condition that cannot result in a live birth and requires immediate medical attention to avoid a life-threatening situation. Even if you’re considering abortion, identifying an ectopic pregnancy through ultrasound is essential to protect your health. 2. How Far Along You Are (Gestational Age) Understanding how far along you are is critical for determining which abortion options you can access. For example, the abortion pill is FDA-approved only for pregnancies up to ten weeks gestation. If your pregnancy is further along, a surgical abortion would be the alternative option available, depending on the circumstances. Period-tracking apps can estimate gestational age, but they lack the accuracy of an ultrasound, which can precisely date your pregnancy. 3. Whether Your Pregnancy Is Progressing Not all pregnancies continue as expected—approximately 26% of pregnancies end in miscarriage. An ultrasound can detect if a miscarriage has occurred so you can follow up with the appropriate care plan. Protect Your Health As you can see, an ultrasound is an essential step in protecting your health and understanding your options. You deserve to make an informed and confident decision and the free limited OB ultrasounds Collage provides will help you to do just that. Contact us today to schedule your appointment. Our care and support are designed to help you through this crucial time. Let us be a source of strength for you.