Can STDs Be Cured? What You Should Know

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) affect millions of people, and knowing your treatment options is key to managing your health. Some infections can be cured with medication, while others require lifelong management. The good news? With the right care, most STDs can be controlled effectively.

Urologist Michael Rotman, MD, with offices on the Upper East Side of Manhattan and in Hewlett, New York, provides expert STD treatment and guidance. Here’s what to expect after a diagnosis.

Which STDs are curable with treatment?

Not all STDs respond to treatment the same way. Bacterial infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis can be cured with antibiotics. Once treated, they’re eliminated from your body.

Several common STDs are curable with the right antibiotics:

• Chlamydia is easily treated with antibiotics when caught early
• Gonorrhea responds to antibiotics, though antibiotic resistance is a growing concern 
• Syphilis is treated effectively with penicillin, especially in the early stages

Starting treatment early is critical because untreated STDs can cause serious health problems, such as infertility, chronic pain, or organ damage. Regular STD screenings help prevent these complications.

Which STDs require lifelong management?

Viral STDs, such as HIV, herpes, and HPV, can’t be cured entirely. While this might seem discouraging, proper treatment allows many people with viral STDs to lead healthy, active lives without complications.

Medications can manage symptoms, suppress outbreaks, and reduce transmission risks, allowing people with the following infections to live healthy, active lives.

HIV

HIV weakens the immune system, but treatment allows people to live long, healthy lives.

• Managed with antiretroviral therapy (ART)
• Prevents virus progression to AIDS
• Lowers viral load to undetectable levels, eliminating transmission risk

With consistent treatment, people with HIV can maintain their health and prevent spreading the virus.

Herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2)

The herpes simplex virus stays in the body for life, but medication helps control outbreak frequency and severity and helps lower the risk of transmission to partners.

Although herpes can’t be cured, many people go long periods without symptoms, and proper management reduces its impact on daily life.

HPV

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common STD, with some strains causing genital warts and others linked to cancer.

• Most infections clear naturally within one to two years
• HPV vaccine protects against high-risk strains
• No cure, but treatments are available for symptoms and complications

Because HPV often causes no symptoms, regular screenings and vaccinations are key to preventing long-term health risks.

Why early detection and treatment matter

Early detection plays a vital role in effectively treating STDs, especially those caused by bacteria. Regular screenings and clear communication with Dr. Rotman are crucial to maintaining sexual health.

If you're sexually active, get tested regularly — even if you have no symptoms. Many STDs don’t show immediate signs, so early testing can prevent serious complications later on.

Dr. Rotman can help you manage viral infections, improving your quality of life. With proper treatment, many people with viral STDs can live healthy lives and avoid transmitting the infection to others.

How to protect yourself from STDs

While no method completely eliminates risks, the following steps significantly reduce your chances of contracting or spreading an STD:

• Use protection – condoms and dental dams lower transmission risks
• Get vaccinated – the HPV and hepatitis B vaccines offer strong protection
• Communicate openly – discuss sexual health and testing history with partners
• Get tested regularly – early detection prevents complications and protects others

Are you worried about STDs? Call or schedule an appointment online to talk through your concerns and take control of your sexual health today. We stand firmly in your corner, ready to map out your options and walk beside you through every twist and turn of your journey.