Did you know it’s possible for your partner to get treated for Chlamydia without ever having to see a GP or go to a sexual health clinic? This is known as Patient Delivered Partner Therapy (PDPT).
How does it work?
- Your doctor will give you either the medication (drug) Azithromycin, or a prescription for the medication to give to your sexual partner/s
- It’s a way to get your sexual partners treated for Chlamydia without them having to see a doctor
- It’s not available everywhere in Australia, but is offered by some publicly funded Sexual Health Clinics and Family Planning Clinics in NSW
- Telling sexual partners you have an STI can be difficult, but it’s the right thing to do
Why do partners need treatment for Chlamydia?
People who have Chlamydia, especially women, usually have no symptoms, so may have an infection without even knowing. If they don’t get medication to treat it they can pass it back to you or onto other people, which isn’t good for anyone, right? Sometimes Chlamydia can cause serious health problems, including infertility. So it’s really important people get the chance to be treated if you think they might have it.
What do I need to do?
- In NSW, PDPT is being offered at some Publicly Funded Sexual Health Clinics and some Family Planning Clinics; call 1800 451 624 to find out where in NSW. If you live outside of NSW check with your doctor as it’s not available everywhere in Australia
- Make sure you read or print off these fact sheets for you and your partner/s. This one is for you (the patient) and this one is for your partner/s.
How do I talk to my partner about Chlamydia?
Telling sexual partners that you have an STI can be difficult, but it’s the right thing to do. The best way to tell your partners is by being open and honest.
When
Choose a time to talk with your partner when they can give you their complete attention. Allow plenty of time to explain and discuss the problem. The sooner you tell your partner, the sooner they can get treated.
How
Focus on the facts and on solving the problem. Avoid blaming or confessions. Give your partners a copy of the info sheets we’ve mentioned above, or anything the doctor has given you.
Say: “I tested positive for Chlamydia.”
Avoid : “You infected me with Chlamydia.” or “I’ve given you Chlamydia”
Avoid blame and simply focus on the facts
You don’t know for sure if this partner had Chlamydia first, if they got it from you, or if they even have it at all. People can be exposed to STIs without becoming infected.
Explain: Chlamydia is easy to catch, often has no symptoms and can lead to serious complications if untreated so it’s a good idea to take the medication (Azithromycin) straight away and then see a doctor for testing.
You could say: “This medication is to treat an STI called chlamydia. You should take it because I was infected which means you might be infected too. You should read the info sheets and visit a doctor as soon as possible to get tested for other STIs.”
Your partners may feel embarrassed, ashamed, guilty, angry or scared. These feelings are normal. By offering them treatment, you’re showing you care enough to help.
I’ve been given medication for Chlamydia, what now?
If you have been given a medication (drug) or a prescription to take to a pharmacy please read the Partner Info Sheet that came with it before taking the medication.
Don’t have a Partner Info Sheet? No problem. Click here for a copy.
For more info on PDPT, or advice around telling your partner, call Sexual Health Infolink on 1800 451 624.
