These three types of infections can occur whether you are involved in a heterosexual (opposite gender) or homosexual (same gender) sex. Parasitic and bacterial infections can be cured, but viral infections can only be treated, not completely cured. In this page we will talk about general treatments available for STDs. If you think you are infected with an STD, consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Bacterial Sexually Transmitted Diseases
There are 2 types of genital infections that are not 'true' STDs- yeast or fungal infections and bacterial vaginosis. Sex partners often re-infect each other with these infections through sexual intercourse. But these infections are not technically considered STDs.
- 'Candidal Vulvovaginitis' or Vaginal Yeast Infection: This is caused by a fungus called 'candida'. A yeast infection is not an STD as many women who are sexually inactive have this infection. But, a vaginal infection is more common in women who are sexually active. This infection is treated by creams, available without prescription. It can be treated with the help of oral medication Diflucan, which requires a prescription.
- Bacterial Vaginosis: Caused by bacteria that reside in the bowels and vagina. Treatment includes antibiotic gels that is applied in the vagina and oral antibiotics.
Treatment for other bacterial STDs include the following:
- Chlamydia is one of the most common STDs in young adults and teens. If left untreated, it can lead to infertility. Treatment involves a course of antibiotics that is taken for 7-10 days.
- Gonorrhoea is treated by antibiotics taken for 7-10 days or by a single injection.
- Syphilis can be easily treated with a penicillin injection.
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is present only in females and is caused by bacteria in the bowel and genital tract. If left untreated, PID causes irreversible damage to the reproductive organs. Treatment includes lengthy course of antibiotics (2 weeks) and draining of abscesses, if any.
Viral Sexually Transmitted Diseases
- Herpes, caused by the herpes simplex virus can be treated with the help of antiviral medicines at the time of outbreaks. In order to prevent frequent outbreaks, daily antiviral medications should be administered. Currently, no cure or vaccine is available for herpes.
- Genital warts or Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) can be treated with liquid nitrogen or lotions to freeze the warts. Currently, no cure or vaccine is available to treat HPV.
- Hepatitis B infection, caused by Hepatitis B virus is difficult to treat. But, there are certain injections and oral medications that are generally used. An effective vaccine for Hepatitis B is available, but no cure.
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) can be treated and its progression slowed by administering a combination of antiviral medications. Currently, there is no vaccine or cure available for HIV.
Parasitic Infections
Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite, Trichomonas vaginalis. This infection is very common and can be treated by administering antibiotic and antiparasitic medications.
What to do if you think you have STD?
- If you think you have the symptoms mentioned, get yourself checked! This is not the time to be embarrassed, but the need for quick action.
- There are many health departments in Australia with special clinics that treat STDs. In case you don't know where to go, call your local family planning clinic for more information. No matter where you receive treatment, your case will be kept absolutely private.
- It's normal to feel embarrassed about having STDs and it may be difficult to go to the doctor or the clinic. But it is necessary to get yourself treated event though it is the hardest thing to do. There is no other way to recover.
- Don't forget to inform your sexual partner. If they are not treated, they can also spread STDs! And they might infect you again.