30 Something Baby Doc

I was seeing a pregnant patient last week for a routine prenatal visit . Her husband and sister were also present at her appointment. The appointment went well, we listened to her baby's heart beat which was very exciting for the patient and her husband. The patient also complained of a vaginal discharge with itching. I did a pelvic exam, collected some of the discharge and examined it under a microscope. Unfortunately she had a infection called trichomonas which is easily treatable but is classified as a sexually transmitted disease.

I went back into the patient's room and told her I had something personal and important to tell her. I asked her if she would like to speak with me alone given the nature of the diagnosis. Her sister quickly left the room , but her husband was insistent on staying and the patient agreed that he could remain present. I informed the patient that she had a sexually transmitted disease and that she and her partner would need to be treated. The patient was visibly shocked, but the husband was silent and restless in his seat. The patient then began to give her husband a piercing stare which made him appear even more uncomfortable . I then saw that as my cue to leave the room. Immediately upon leaving I heard the patient yelling at her husband and him making attempts to explain himself.

I'm always uncomfortable giving a patient the diagnosis of an STD while their partner is physically present. I view the latter as the worst way to disclose a partners infidelity. (not only has your partner cheated but they have also showed no consideration for your well being and neglected using condoms) . Injury to Insult