Summertime brings a special vibe each year. Spontaneous romances, island baecations, and late-night meetups under the stars are always on the horizon. But while summer might turn up the heat on your social and intimate life, it also comes with a less glamorous reality: a rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with an STI, you are not alone. More importantly, it’s not the end of your dating life. What it is, however, is a time to pause, prioritize your health, and have that conversation with your partner.

Why STIs Spike in Summer

According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), STI diagnoses tend to climb during the summer months. Sex and relationship expert Gemma Nice explains why.

“When the weather improves, people naturally feel more relaxed and sociable,” she said. “Summer brings festivals, holidays, and trips abroad, all of which create more opportunities to meet new people and, of course, to have sex.”

Add a little liquid courage to the mix, and safe sex practices can fall by the wayside. Studies show that condom use often dips when alcohol is involved, making STI transmission more likely.

So if you’re facing a diagnosis, know that you’re part of a larger, very human experience. There’s nothing shameful about it, just steps to take.

You’ve Got the Diagnosis, Now What?

You’ve gotten your results, you’ve processed the emotions, and now it’s time to tell your partner.

Be Honest, But Choose the Right Moment

Find a calm, private space where you won’t be interrupted or rushed. No one wants to get this news mid-Netflix binge or in the car on the way to brunch. You could say something like:

“Hey, I wanted to talk to you about something important. I recently got tested and found out I have [insert STI]. I’m already taking steps to manage it, and I wanted to let you know because it’s important for both of us.”

Keep it clear, keep it kind. This isn’t about blame. It’s about health, responsibility, and mutual care.

Don’t Panic, Most STIs Are Treatable

There’s a lot of fear-mongering around STIs, but here’s the truth: the vast majority are manageable or completely treatable. In fact, the biggest risk is not knowing you have one. Reassure your partner:

“This doesn’t define us, and it doesn’t have to change how we feel about each other. We just need to take care of it together.”

If you’re open to it, offer to go with them to get tested. That level of support can turn a tough moment into a bonding one.

Telling an Ex: Yes, You Still Should

If you’re questioning whether or not you should tell your ex, the answer is yes. It may be awkward but it’s also necessary. Protecting their health helps stop the STI from spreading further, and it’s a respectful thing to do. If an in-person conversation isn’t possible, many clinics offer anonymous partner notification services. Or, if you want to send a message yourself, keep it simple and compassionate. For example:

“Hey, I just wanted to let you know I tested positive for [name of STI]. You should get tested too, just to be safe. Most STIs are treatable, I just wanted to let you know directly.”

It’s Normal to be Nervous

Having “the conversation” can stir up anxiety. Breathe through it. You might even want to practice what you’ll say out loud, or write it down first. Definitely read up on your diagnosis beforehand so you can answer any questions without spiraling. Remember, if someone responds with judgment or cruelty that says more about them than it does about you. You deserve kindness, honesty, and a partner who respects your vulnerability. Don’t shrink yourself. You’re not dirty, broken, or unlovable. You’re informed, courageous, and still every bit the person you were before the diagnosis. You got this.