It's tough, but you've got to do it, no matter how uncomfortable it makes you feel. It doesn�t matter if your partner is your current steady, a casual fling or someone you�re no longer dating. You have to let them know about this infection.

If you�ve already had sex, you may have infected your partner and they need to see a doctor. They also need to take precautions if they�re having sex with other people, so they don�t spread the infection.

If you�re thinking about having sex with someone, that person has the right to know the risks, so they can make a decision.

So how to tackle this tough job? Think about what you want to say to your partner or former partner and practice it on a friend, a counselor or to yourself in front of a mirror. Then talk to the person in private.

You don't have to discuss how you got the disease, if you don't want to. If you two have already had sex, explain the infection and urge them to see a doctor. If you�re deciding whether to have sex, tell your partner what your doctor says about if and when it�s safe to have sex. Of course, condoms will have to be used, no matter what.

Many people will understand and be supportive. But some won�t. Others might get angry. So be ready. And try to remember, you�re doing the right thing by being honest.