• How can I protect myself and my partner(s)?
STDs get from one person to another through sex. They pass easily through the delicate lining of the mouth, vagina, penis and rectum. Abstinence (not having sex) is the only sure way to prevent sexual transmission of STDs.

Wait until both you and your partner have completed treatment before having sex again. Too often people pass a disease back and forth by having sex before they have finished all their medication.

If you shoot drugs, never share your works (needle and syringe). Don't share or re-use cotton balls, rinse water or other equipment, either.

Don't share needles to pierce body parts, make tattoos or for anything else.

• What's the difference between exposed and infected?
With syphilis, if you've had sex with someone who is infected, you've been exposed. Do not wait for symptoms. Many people with syphilis do not know they are infected until they get very sick. There are simple tests to see if you are infected before problems arise.

• What do I do if I think I might be infected?
The only way to know if you are infected is to go to a doctor's office or clinic and have the appropriate tests done. Even if you have had a recent exam, the specific tests were probably not performed.

Because syphilis and other STDs can lead to serious - even life threatening - conditions, your doctor may suggest you get treated without waiting for test results.

• Who needs to know they may have been exposed?
Anyone you've had sex with recently. Your health provider or counselor can help you figure out just how long "recently" is; it depends on many different things. If the STD you have is passed through blood (such as HIV or Hepatitis B), anyone you've shared a needle with needs to know, too.

• Do I have to tell them?
They need to know. Many people do not have symptoms until after they pass the infection on to others or develop serious health problems. Many of these problems can be avoided if people are told they are at risk, and get tested and treated. Even if your partner(s) has had a check up recently, chances are they were not tested for STDs.

The health department can notify people who may have been exposed and may be infected with an STD. Ask your health provider or counselor to explain how that works.

• I want to tell my partner, but I don't know how.
It's a good idea to practice with your health provider or counselor. Here are some tips that can really make a difference:

1. When: Choose a time to talk with your partner when he or she can give you his/her complete attention. You will need to allow plenty of time. The sooner you tell your partner, the sooner he/she can get checked and treated.
2. Where: Choose a place that is quiet, private and safe. You do not want interruptions and you do not want to be overheard.
3. How: Focus on the facts and on solving the problem. Avoid accusations and confessions.
• Say: "I tested positive for syphillis"
• Do not say: "You infected me with syphillis" or "I've given you an STD."
• Do not say: "You have syphillis" Only a health provider can diagnose an STD.
• Explain: Many people do not have symptoms until after they have passed the infection on to others or developed serious complications. Getting tested is the only way to know for sure, and serious problems can be avoided if they get tested and treated early.
• Make sure your partner knows what STD you are talking about! There are over 40 common STDs and treatment varies from one infection to another.
4. What next? Your partner(s) needs to get a medical evaluation as soon as possible. He/she can go to a private physician, a health care center or a public health clinic. Ask your health provider or counselor to help you with the choices so you will be able to offer them to your partner(s). You should both know that if your partner goes to the same provider that treated you, all information will still be kept confidential. Your information stays private to you; your partner's information stays private to him/her.