STI disclosure after unprotected sex: what are your obligations?
After a positive STI test, a natural question arises: do I have to report this? Am I legally required to tell someone? The honest answer is: there is no universal criminal law in the Netherlands that requires STI disclosure — but the ethical responsibility is clear. This article calmly explains what your obligations are and how to handle them thoughtfully.
No panic. No shame. Just responsibility — on your own terms.
Is there a legal STI disclosure requirement in the Netherlands?
In the Netherlands, there is no general criminal law requiring you to inform sexual partners about an STI diagnosis. In most cases, you cannot be prosecuted for not disclosing an STI.
- For most STIs (chlamydia, gonorrhoea, herpes, HPV) there is no legal reporting or disclosure obligation for individuals.
- An exception may apply in cases of intentional transmission of serious conditions (HIV) under general criminal law — not STI-specific legislation.
- Healthcare professionals have mandatory reporting obligations to the GGD for certain diseases under public health law.
- The GGD offers partner notification services: they contact partners on your behalf, anonymously or directly, based on your preference.
The ethical responsibility
No criminal law does not mean no responsibility. STIs spread only when people do not know they need to be tested or treated. Notifying partners — even anonymously — is the caring choice that prevents further transmission.
Preventing further spread
Every notified partner can get tested and, if needed, treated before exposing others.
Respect for the other person
Notifying someone gives them the chance to make an informed decision about their own health.
Caring, not blaming
Informing someone is not assigning blame. You are sharing a possible exposure — not a verdict.
Your own peace of mind
Knowing you did the right thing brings peace — even when the conversation or message was difficult.
When is notifying most relevant?
- After a positive STI test, for recent sexual contacts within the relevant risk window.
- If you have had symptoms that could indicate an STI, even without a confirmed diagnosis.
- If a partner has notified you and you may have exposed others in turn.
- With multiple recent partners: even if uncomfortable, each person deserves the information.
- For STIs that require treatment before resuming sexual contact (chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis).
Three ways to notify a partner
Direct conversation
The most transparent option. Personal contact allows space for questions, empathy, and clarity. Not always feasible with ex-partners, brief encounters, or when conflict is a concern.
GGD partner notification
The GGD can contact partners on your behalf — anonymously or by name — based on your choice. This is free, professional, and confidential. Ask your GGD or healthcare provider for more information.
Anonymous message via PrivaNotify
For situations where direct contact is not possible or desired: a discreet, carefully worded message that only informs the recipient of a possible exposure — without revealing the sender's identity, without blame or panic.
None of these options requires you to reveal your identity. Anonymous notification is entirely valid and gives the recipient the opportunity to act.
Official information on partner notification
Read more about partner notification at Soa Aids NederlandExternal source. No partnership or endorsement implied; use it as general information and follow professional guidance from a doctor, clinic, or local health authority.
What not to do when notifying a partner
- Assign blame: say "there may have been exposure", not "you infected me".
- Share more about your own diagnosis or treatment than necessary.
- Contact the recipient multiple times or apply pressure.
- Share screenshots or identifying information about the sender or recipient.
- Wait until you are "certain" — thoughtful action during the window period is already valuable.