If you don't disclose an STI to a partner, it could have serious consequences. It is generally the most compassionate thing to do. It can help your partner make informed decisions and prevent the spread of an STI in your community. In some cases, not disclosing an STI may be illegal.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Am I legally required to share my HIV status with others?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). HIV and STD criminalization laws.
Public Health Law Research, Temple University. (2014). State statutes explicitly related to sexually transmitted diseases in the United States, 2013. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
STDcheck.com. (2018). STDs and the law.
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Written by:
Hilary WeissmanHilary Weissman has been a health writer for the past 6 years. She was a senior copywriter at WW (Weight Watchers) before joining GoodRx and was also a copy editor in S&P Global’s structured finance ratings group for 3 years prior.
Reviewed by:
Sanjai Sinha, MDSanjai Sinha, MD, is a board-certified physician with over 20 years of experience. He specializes in internal medicine.
