Telling a former partner you have an STI just got easier.

Image: iStock.

Sexually transmissible infections (STIs) aren’t rare in Australia, and findings from the Bureau of Statistics indicates our national rates are increasing. Despite the numbers, there’s still a considerable stigma surrounding the issue.

Being diagnosed with an STI can be a troubling experience in and of itself, but often it’s the thought of telling a current and/or former sexual partners that they might also be at risk that’s an even greater source of anxiety.

For some people, it might be the fear of being judged or shamed for their actions. Others might have reason to believe their partner or their ex would react in a more extreme or threatening way.

That’s where the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre’s Let Them Know service comes in.

The website allows people who have been diagnosed with chlamydia, gonorrhoea, mycoplasma genitalium, syphilis and trichomonas to anonymously notify their partner(s) via email, text or a letter.

Watch: Mamamia staff discuss whether cheating is physical or emotional. (Post continues after video.)

As you might imagine, it would be difficult to send a message without any indication of identity these days — IP addresses, phone numbers and even the ol’ postage stamp can all give some inkling. So this is pretty game-changing.

Before they proceed, Let Them Know users are reminded that most people would prefer to be informed of possible STI exposure in person.

They’re also encouraged to consider whether this is the most appropriate mode of communication and whether the message could possibly be read by a third party.

Informing partners of their possible exposure to an STI is an important step. (iStock)

However, the anonymous option could give certain people the confidence and security they in order to need to take this step.

"Some people may react badly to being told they are at risk of an STI. If you think one of your partners could become abusive on hearing this news, do not tell them yourself," the website states.

"Instead, use our anonymous email, SMS or letter or ask your doctor." (Post continues after gallery.)

Contraception options and the protection they offer.

CondomsThe male condom is a barrier contraception that prevents both pregnancy and the transmission of STDs. They work by collecting semen so it doesn't enter theman's partner's body. Condoms are 95 to 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.

Contraceptive pillThe Pillis the most popular form of birth control. There are two types: the combined pill, containing two hormones, and theprogestogen-only, or mini, pill, which only contains one female hormone. The combined pill works by preventing the ovary from releasing an egg each month. The mini pill changes the mucus at the entrance of the uterus, which stops sperm from entering. Both are 99.7% effective; however, they don't offer protection from STDs.

Intrauterine deviceIUDs are small, T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus by a doctor in order to prevent pregnancy. There are two types of IUD: copper, which affects the movement and survival of sperm in the womb while changing the lining of the womb;and hormonal, which releases progestogen (a synthetic version of the naturally-occurring hormone progesterone) into the uterus. Although IUDs have a success rate of more than 99%, only around 2% of Australian women currently use one.

The female condomThe female condom is a pre-lubricated sheath, which loosely fits inside of the vagina. The condom has a removable ring, which helps to insert the sheath and keep the condom in place. A larger ring remains on the outside to cover the opening of the vagina. They are designed to fit all women and can only to be used once. Due to misuse of the product it is only 79 per cent effective.

DiaphragmLike the male condom, the diaphragm is a barrier method of contraception. It's a shallow silicone dome that's inserted into the vagina andcovers the cervix, which is the entrance to the uterus. It's held in place by the pelvic muscles, and works by preventing sperm from entering the uterus. After sex, diaphragms need to remain in placefor another six hours, in which time the sperm inside the vagina die. This method is 88 to 94% effective at preventing pregnancy, although this rate increases with experience.

Birth control implantThis is a 4cm-longimplant that is inserted into a woman's upper arm, just under the skin, by a doctor. It releases a hormone called etonogestrel, which prevents ovulation and thickens the mucus in the cervix, which can stop sperm from entering. Contraceptive implants - usually sold as Implanon - are removed under anaesthetic every three years, and are close to 100% effective.

Vaginal ringVaginal rings are soft plastic rings that contain the same two hormones as the combined pill - oestrogen and progestogen. The ring is inserted into the vagina, where the hormones are absorbed into the body and then prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs. Once inside the ring can't be felt, and it needs replacing every three weeks (with one week's break in between). When used correctly, this method is more than 99% effective.

Depo ProveraDepo is a long lasting hormonal injection. The synthetic form of progesterone is administered every 12 to 14 weeks to woman, preventing pregnancy within this ongoing time period. The injection, which is given in the buttock or muscle of the upper arm, prevents ovulation and thickens the mucus in the cervix, helping to block sperm. The injections are 99 per cent effective but do not protect against STDs. Male contraceptive injections are currently being trialled

The morning after pillEmergency contraception (popularly referred to as the morning after pill) is used to prevent a pregnancy following unprotected sex. Other reasons include missing a contraceptive pill or a condom breaking. It is common in Australia to use the progestogen-only method. This entails a dosage of EC pills containing progestogen or the synthetic version. A doctor can prescribe the pill or they can be bought over the counter at a pharmacy without a prescription. Emergency contraceptionis 85 per cent effective in reducing the risk of pregnancy.

SterilisationSterilisation is a permanent form of contraception. For women there are two types of sterilisation: tubal ligation, in which clips are placed on the fallopian tubes, or tubal occlusion in which a device is inserted into the tubes. These methods work by preventing the sperm from reaching the egg. Tubal litigation is 99.5 per cent effective. The Vasectomy (for men) works by cutting and blocking the tubes called the vas deferens, preventing sperm from leaving the testicles. The chances of impregnation with a vasectomy are 1 in 1000.

Notifying former partners of an STI diagnosis is an important, if kind of uncomfortable, process. It gives partners the opportunity to get tested themself, which could lead to early diagnosis and treatment, and can also help stop the spread of the infection within the wider community.

There's absolutely no shame in contracting an STI, and anybody should feel empowered to seek the treatment they need and inform people who have possibly been exposed.

Generally speaking, however, it's vital to practice sex and use contraceptive methods that protect from STIs and not just pregnancy.

Have you ever had to notify former partners of STI risk?

STI services in Australia

Sexual Health Australia.Sexual Health Australia offers counselling on a range of sex-related issues, including living with STIs. Their website is also a great resource for information on a range of infections. They do not offer STI testing. Call0404 267 559 or visithttp://www.sexualhealthaustralia.com.au/stis3.html

Health Direct Australia.Health Direct Australia is a great resource of STI information. The website also offers a symptom checker, where you can input your details and any symptoms you're experiencing and it will recommend if you see need to see a GP. It also points you in the direction of the nearest health service. Visithttp://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sexually-transmitted-infections-sti

Family Planning Australia Alliance.The Alliance hasa Family Planning partner in each state, which offer advice and support through their hotlines and clinics. Visit http://familyplanningallianceaustralia.org.au/services/

Australian Government Department of Health.The Australian Government's Department of Health has an entire section of its website dedicated to easy-to-read facts and figures on STIs as well as practical advice, including FAQs on STI testing. Visit http://www.sti.health.gov.au/internet/sti/publishing.nsf/Content/key-information-testing-and-treatment

Tags: health , sexual-health , sexually-transmitted-infections

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STI services in Australia