What if you know you have an STD but you don't want to tell a doctor?

If you know you were exposed to an STD, telling your health care provider right away will allow for "presumptive treatment" -- treatment the same day before the results come back. While you're getting treated, the tests will return.

If you are uncomfortable talking with your own health care provider about this situation, you are in good company. Many people feel the same way, but are happily surprised when they find that their primary care provider does not judge them.

If you're still concerned about privacy, consider seeing your local Department of Health for testing and treatment, or contacting your local family planning center. These places are experts in nonjudgemental and high-quality care for STDs.

Getting sick or permanently damaged because you're afraid to admit an STD is not productive. STDs are easy to catch because so many people have them. You are likely not to be the only STD case your health care provider sees that day.