The use of a condom is essential to protect yourself and your partners against STDs. If you have any concerns, you should have a screening test. In the event of an infection, follow the treatment correctly and inform your sexual partner/partners.
How are STDs treated?
Bacterial infections such as Chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, Mycoplasma genitalium and trichomoniasis are treated using antibiotics.
Genital herpes, the HPV infection, the HIV infection and hepatitis B are incurable viral infections, however the effects can be diminished using antivirals.
In the event of an STD, pregnant women can undergo antibiotic treatment.
DID YOU KNOW? The bacterium that causes gonorrhea has developed a resistance to most antibiotics, thus limiting the treatment options. Incorrect use of antibiotics causes a genetic mutation of the bacterium which becomes resistant to antibiotics.
The importance of treating STDs
An STD that is left untreated can cause complications that are difficult to treat and lead to long-term after effects.
Because some STDs do not cause symptoms (asymptomatic), if you are in any doubt at all or if you have had sexual relations without a condom, go to a doctor, a family planning clinic or a screening centre (G.U.M clinic) and have a screening test.
If you test positive for an STD:
- do not attempt to treat it yourself (ointment, antibiotics, etc.)
- follow the treatment prescribed by the doctor until you have finished the course
- during treatment, use a condom
- warn your partner/partners so that they can also be screened and have treatment if necessary.