Lukas Gage Reveals Contracting Two STIs from Supposedly Faithful Partner

Lukas Gage, a familiar face from acclaimed shows such as Euphoria and You, has made headlines after opening up about a deeply personal moment: contracting two STIs from a partner he thought was faithful. In a recent interview with the New York Post, Gage, 30, reflected on the experience, its emotional impact, and the broader implications for sexual health and trust among LGBTQ+ individuals .

Gage recounted the initial shock of his diagnosis, describing how he had relaxed his routine of regular STI testing once he entered what he believed to be a committed relationship. "I thought I was in a monogamous relationship, and it was a double whammy," Gage told the New York Post. He explained that it was not an aversion to non-monogamy but a lack of open communication about boundaries and expectations that led to the incident .

He recalled confronting his partner after noticing symptoms and seeking medical attention. "He was very much sticking to the lie, until I went to the doctor, who laughed at me as soon as I pulled down my pants and said, ‘That’s an STD,’" Gage shared, highlighting both the personal pain and the awkwardness that often surrounds sexual health diagnoses .

Reflecting on his experience, Gage emphasized the necessity of honesty in all relationships. “No one’s perfect. People make mistakes. I’ve been the person who was the cheater too. The most important thing to do would be to be honest about it and be forthcoming,” he said. Gage’s openness underscores a crucial point: honesty not only protects individuals from physical harm but also fosters emotional safety within relationships .

For many in the LGBTQ+ community, conversations around sexual health can be fraught with stigma, shame, or fear of judgment. Gage’s account serves as a reminder that these discussions are essential, regardless of relationship status. “Be proactive, be informed, and don’t let stigma stand in the way of your well-being,” he urged .

Gage’s experience is not unique. Studies have consistently shown that assumptions about monogamy or exclusivity can lead to gaps in sexual health vigilance. According to a 2017 study, gay and bisexual men accounted for 66% of new HIV diagnoses in the U.S., with a significant number of infections occurring within long-term relationships . This data highlights the importance of continuous, open dialogue and regular testing, even for those in committed partnerships.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health organizations advocate for comprehensive sexual education, routine screening, and honest communication as cornerstones of STI prevention and holistic sexual health . Gage’s advocacy aligns with these recommendations, bringing a much-needed personal perspective to public health messages.

Beyond sharing his own experience, Gage has actively partnered with Gilead Sciences to promote conversations around sexual health and HIV prevention. In a recent Instagram post, he wrote, “It’s incredibly important to have open conversations about HIV prevention” (Instagram: @lukasgage) .

Gage encourages everyone, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community, to talk openly about testing, prevention options like PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), and any health concerns that arise. “Talk openly, end the stigma, and help protect yourself and others. Speak with your healthcare provider about HIV prevention options,” he stated .

His message is particularly resonant in a climate where sexual health is still too often shrouded in secrecy. By sharing his story, Gage is not only advocating for transparency and accountability but also helping to dismantle the stigma that can prevent individuals from seeking care or discussing their status.

Gage’s experience has sparked broader conversations about trust, boundaries, and self-care within LGBTQ+ relationships. While many assume that exclusivity provides a shield against STIs, the reality is that trust must be paired with honest communication and mutual responsibility for health.

Experts in LGBTQ+ health stress that assumptions about a partner’s behavior can leave individuals vulnerable. “The most protective approach is transparency about sexual history and regular checkups, regardless of relationship status,” says Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, Director of the CDC’s Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention .

Gage’s willingness to publicly discuss his diagnosis helps normalize these essential conversations and demonstrates that sexual health is a shared responsibility. “Our health is our responsibility, and it starts with honesty and action,” Gage affirmed .

With the forthcoming release of his memoir, I Wrote This For Attention, Gage continues to use his platform to advocate for sexual health awareness and LGBTQ+ empowerment. His candor is part of a broader movement among LGBTQ+ celebrities and activists who are working to change the narrative around sexual health, emphasizing education, prevention, and the importance of destigmatizing STI diagnoses .

As the LGBTQ+ community continues to confront both the unique challenges and universal realities of sexual health, voices like Gage’s remind us that vulnerability can be a powerful tool for change. By fostering open dialogue and prioritizing care, the community can build a future where stigma is replaced by support, and where every individual feels empowered to protect their own and their partners’ well-being.