Finding out you’ve tested positive for a sexually transmitted infection (STI) can feel overwhelming. You may wonder what to do first, how to protect your health, and how to talk to a partner. While it’s natural to feel anxious, you’re not alone. STIs are common, and with the right treatment and support, most can be managed or cured.  Cassie Drumm (2025)

» Use condoms every time you have vaginal or anal sex, and use appropriate barriers (like dental dams) for oral sex to reduce contact with bodily fluids. Internal (female) condoms can also help protect against many STIs.

» Choose water-based lubricants with condoms; avoid oil-based products like lotion or petroleum jelly because they can weaken latex.

»Talk openly with your sexual partner(s) about STIs, testing, and safer sex practices.

» Find an STI testing center near you and get regularly tested for STIs. Share results with partners so you know your status and can get treatment if needed.

» Reducing the number of sexual partners.

» Avoid risky situations like being drunk or out of it on drugs which can lead to impaired decision making.

» Consider vaccines that prevent some infections, such as HPV and hepatitis B vaccines. And also avoid sharing needles or other drug-injection equipment, as this can transmit some infections. 

Condoms are available from supermarkets, pharmacies (or chemists), sexual health clinics and family planning clinics. They can also be purchased from vending machines at some nightclubs, pubs, colleges and universities.

   You might want to think about the following issues: 

» Possible side effects.

» Why you should take contraception: Some people use it for hormonal reasons (e.g., to treat acne, endometriosis, heavy menstrual flow, or irregular periods).

» Whether you want to get pregnant.

» Consider the cost.

» Factor in your health and medications.

» BEFORE:

Think about what you want to say and how you feel. Considering how to write down your thoughts can help you stay calm during the talk. Be ready to answer questions, like who the father is and your thoughts on next steps.

» DURING:

Your parents may be caught off guard, and it’s normal for their first emotions to include surprise, disappointment, anger, or confusion. Stay calm and try not to get into an argument, even if their reaction isn’t what you hoped for. Be prepared to listen to what they have to say. 

» AFTER:

After telling your parents, it’s important to understand that they may need time to absorb the news before responding calmly. Follow-up conversations help to plan what your next actions are.

   There is no perfect or “right” moment to tell your parents about a pregnancy. What matters most is choosing a time when you feel ready to have the conversation. 

» Purpose of Sex Education

Sex education helps children understand their bodies, sexuality, and relationships as normal parts of life. It builds trust so they feel safe asking questions and learning accurate information and supports healthy choices both now and in the future.

» Starting Conversations

It’s important to begin talking early and continue as your child grows. Parents should ask what their child already knows, correct misinformation, and use the correct names for body parts to make communication clear and comfortable.

» How to Talk With Kids

Explain information at a level your child can understand. Be honest about feelings and facts, and it’s okay to say “I don’t know.” Look for natural moments, like seeing a pregnant person, to start discussions.

» Topics Children May Ask About

Children may ask how babies are made, puberty changes such as wet dreams or erections, and normal feelings or curiosity about relationships. It’s also important to teach them about respectful limits.

» School Sex Education

Schools provide formal lessons on bodies, relationships, and sexual health, as well as learning through peer interactions. Talking at home can reinforce and expand what children learn at school.

» Safety and Consent

Teach children the difference between touching that is okay and contact that is not. Encourage them to say "No!" to unwanted touches and to tell a trusted adult if something feels wrong.

» Supporting Healthy Development

Covering curiosity about sex and relationships helps children understand emotional changes. Talking about intimacy, attraction, and respect is an important part of their healthy development.

» Makabata Helpline: 1383 (To report Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children)

» CPTCSA Helpline (Children's Protection): 0961-718-2654 (Mon/Wed), 0961-718-2658 (Tue/Thu), 0961-718-2655 (Fri)

» PNP Women and Children Protection Center (VAWC): 0919-777-7377 or (02) 8532-6690

» Public Attorney's Office (PAO): (02) 8929-9436