Expedited Partner Therapy (EPT): What You Need to Know About Treating STIs in Partners
Have you heard of Expedited Partner Therapy (EPT)?
1. What is EPT? EPT is the clinical practice of treating the sex partners of patients diagnosed with STIs without examining them. This allows clinicians to provide prescriptions or medications for the patient to take to their sex partner(s).
2. What are the benefits of EPT?
💌faster treatment and symptom relief (if present)
💌reduces for further STI transmission
💌reduced risk of complications of untreated STIs
3. Am I eligible for EPT? It depends on where you live. Even where not deemed illegal, some US states have laws that still li and prevent clinicians from providing EPT.
4. Is EPT available for all STIs? At present, EPT can be used for treating chlamydia, gonorrhea, and, potentially, trichomoniasis. The body of research that supports EPT’s effectiveness and impact are largely heterocentric, which could be a barrier for affirmative care for LGBTQ+ folks. With gonorrhea’s increasing drug resistance, there are also certain prescription limitations.
5. How do I know if EPT is an option for me?
💌Do Your Research: search for EPT in your state/region. In the US, the CDC has a great overview of state legislation and policy.
💌Ask: if you are currently seeking treatment and would like to see if EPT is an option for your partner(s), ask. It may be helpful to come prepared with information or research in this conversation.