Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Treatments and Options

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are among the most common health concerns affecting sexually active adults. Yet, many patients struggle to find care that addresses both the underlying infection and its visible skin symptoms. General practitioners and gynecologists are often well-equipped to diagnose and manage the systemic aspects of an STD. Still, the resulting rashes, sores, blisters, or genital warts frequently call for a dermatologist’s expertise to treat effectively and comfortably. At her private Upper East Side dermatology practice, Dr. Michele Green offers comprehensive STD and STI treatment that prioritizes the skin health of every patient.

Whether you have been diagnosed with HPV, herpes, syphilis, or another sexually transmitted infection, understanding your treatment options is the first step toward relief and long-term skin health. From topical prescriptions and oral antibiotics to in-office procedures for genital warts, effective STD treatment can resolve uncomfortable symptoms and reduce the risk of transmission to future partners. Dr. Michele Green combines the latest CDC-recommended protocols with dermatologic expertise so that every patient feels informed and cared for.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including parasitic infestations like pubic lice, are bacterial, parasitic, or viral infections that can be transmitted between sexual partners during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Although this can be an uncomfortable topic for some, it is important to know how to prevent and treat these common infectious diseases. The majority of STDs/STIs are easily treatable, and it is vital to see a doctor for proper STI/STD testing and treatment.

STD treatment varies depending on the diagnosis, but most treatments involve oral, topical, or combination therapies. If you’re wondering how long STD treatment takes, how to get STD treatment, or about specific medications, you can read below for detailed information on symptoms and options.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Human Papillomavirus (HPV), also known as condyloma acuminata, is the most common STD in New York; approximately 20 million Americans are infected with HPV. An accurate diagnosis and effective treatment for HPV are important, since some strains of the disease can cause cervical and penile cancer. Incorporating skin care with the other recommended treatment guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for HPV can help keep you healthier.

There are between 30 and 40 types of HPV, most of which are transmitted through sexual contact. Some types of HPV cause visible genital warts, while more high-risk strains can progress to precancerous lesions and even cancer. In fact, HPV is responsible for the vast majority of cervical cancer cases.

Most HPV infections are temporary and don’t have long-term effects; 70 percent resolve without treatment within a year, and 90 percent within two years. In about 10 percent of women, the infection persists and progresses, increasing the risk of precancerous lesions and cervical cancer. The good news is that proactive strategies, such as yearly Pap exams, are excellent at detecting abnormal cells before they become cancerous or even precancerous. The strains of HPV that cause cancer are different from those that cause genital warts, which are spread through physical contact and usually appear as small bumps or groups of bumps in the genital area that vary in size and shape.

Treatment of HPV is very important because some strains can cause penile and cervical cancers. If you’re wondering where to go for STD treatment related to HPV, Dr. Green offers private, discreet, and expert genital wart treatment for rectal, penile, and vaginal warts. Treatment options include topical prescriptions such as Podofilox, electrocautery wart removal, and laser surgery to destroy the warts. The HPV vaccine can prevent several HPV strains; if you are between the ages of 9 and 26, you may be eligible.

Herpes Infections

Herpes is a sexually transmitted disease spread through physical contact that affects one in six Americans. Herpes can appear anywhere on the skin but usually affects the lips and genital area. As with all sexually transmitted diseases, prompt and accurate diagnosis is essential to effective care. At our New York practice, we incorporate skin care for the surface symptoms of herpes into a comprehensive treatment plan.

Herpes simplex is a common viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. Herpes is generally categorized into two types: herpes type 1 (HSV-1, or oral herpes) and herpes type 2 (HSV-2, or genital herpes). Most commonly, herpes type 1 causes sores around the mouth and lips, while herpes type 2 causes sores around the genitals or rectum. Herpes can be transmitted through oral secretions or skin sores, and both types can spread even when sores are not present; outbreaks can be triggered by stress, fatigue, illness, immunosuppression, sun exposure, or surgery.

When an individual’s immune system is weakened, herpes outbreaks may occur more often. A blood test or culture can diagnose herpes, which the untrained eye often confuses with other skin conditions or bacterial vaginosis. If you have or suspect you may have herpes, it’s important to get tested to receive proper treatment and take the right precautions with any future sexual partners.

If you have an outbreak, a viral culture or swab of the affected area may be taken and evaluated in the laboratory, and blood tests can also help identify past exposure. Treatment may include antiviral medications as ointments and pills, or a combination of both; prescription medications can prevent the disease and shorten the duration of an outbreak. Medications may include Valtrex, Zovirax, and Famvir. If outbreaks are frequent, Dr. Green may prescribe suppressive therapy, or medications taken regularly, to help prevent flares.

Syphilis

Syphilis is a common sexually transmitted disease that usually affects people in New York City under the age of thirty. When a person is infected with syphilis, they will develop painless sores that last approximately four to six weeks. Syphilis is caused by a bacterium that is most easily transmitted through sexual contact, and it can also be transmitted during pregnancy or the birthing process from a mother to her fetus.

The disease has four stages, each with distinct symptoms. The first and second stages include distinctive skin conditions: in its earliest stage, syphilis manifests as a single, painless, firm, nonitchy skin ulceration known as a chancre, while the second stage presents with a diffuse rash on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. The infected person may also experience a loss of appetite, fever, fatigue, and arthralgias. If left untreated, syphilis can cause long-term damage to the heart, brain, skin, bones, and nervous system.

Antibiotics like penicillin are the preferred and most effective treatment for syphilis, and disease rates dropped significantly with the widespread availability of these medications in the 1940s; however, syphilis rates increased again at the turn of the millennium, often in combination with HIV infection and unsafe sexual practices. A skin care treatment program that addresses the skin conditions commonly associated with syphilis can help minimize permanent damage and improve patients’ comfort. Dr. Green takes a comprehensive approach to managing syphilis, addressing not only the underlying cause of the disease with antibiotics but also the appearance of surface skin conditions, leading to a faster, more comfortable recovery for her patients.

Trichomoniasis Infection

Trichomoniasis is a common, typically mild, parasitic infection caused by Trichomonas vaginalis that can affect both men and women. Symptoms can appear anywhere from 5 to 28 days after initial infection and usually include abnormal genital discharge, painful urination, or painful sexual activity. Trichomoniasis can be treated easily with antibiotics, such as metronidazole; however, because the infection often recurs, all sexual partners must be treated before reengaging in sexual activity.

Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Infection

Chlamydia is an extremely common STD that puts patients at risk for infertility if left untreated. STD symptoms from chlamydia, including more severe strains like lymphogranuloma venereum, often go unnoticed because symptom severity varies widely from person to person. Symptoms can include burning or itching, painful urination, or atypical discharge, but many patients are asymptomatic. Similarly, gonorrhea can go unnoticed in its early stages and can also cause infertility; symptoms include painful urination, atypical discharge, pelvic pain in women, and swollen testes in men. Gonorrhea and chlamydia infections often occur together, so a patient is typically treated for both if tested positive for either.

Like syphilis and trichomoniasis, chlamydia and gonorrhea are bacterial STDs that can often be fully treated with a single dose of antibiotics, such as ceftriaxone, azithromycin, or doxycycline. Early treatment of chlamydia and gonorrhea helps prevent cervicitis or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause infertility in women. If you experience any of the above symptoms, or have a sexual partner who has tested positive for chlamydia or gonorrhea, it’s important to contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss expedited partner therapy (EPT), get tested, and begin any necessary STD treatment.

HIV/AIDS

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the STI that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV targets and destroys cells within the immune system, which can put HIV-positive patients at greater risk for a variety of health problems. The Department of Health and Human Services has studied the biology, prevention, and treatment of HIV/AIDS, and several treatments have been developed to reduce its severity. A combination of antiviral drugs and antiretroviral therapy can support the immune system. If you are at high risk for HIV infection, practicing safe sex and talking to your doctor about pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can help prevent future infection.

STIs / STDs: Prevention and Testing

For those who are sexually active, the best practices for STI and STD prevention include using latex condoms and getting regularly tested for STIs/STDs. It is estimated that half of sexually active adults in the United States will be diagnosed with an STI before age 25, so it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about your sexual history and activity, as well as any symptoms or concerns. Annual STI/STD screening, or STI testing without clear evidence of symptoms, is recommended for:

• Sexually active women under age 25
• Women over age 25 who are sexually active with multiple sex partners
• Men who have sex with men
• Anyone who is HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) positive
• Anyone who has had unexpected instances of sexual activity

Additional screening is recommended for certain specific STIs/STDs:

• HIV screening: at least once for anyone ages 13-64
• Hepatitis C screening: anyone born between 1945 and 1965

Furthermore, for pregnant women, it is recommended that you be screened for HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Chlamydia, Syphilis, and Gonorrhea. A vaccine is readily available for anyone who tests negative for Hepatitis B to prevent future infection.

Where can I get STD Treatment?

Many New York physicians who treat sexually transmitted diseases focus primarily on the underlying infection, often neglecting the skin-related symptoms it can cause. Finding accurate, judgment-free information about STD treatment can be difficult, which is why Dr. Green’s private NYC dermatology practice places strong emphasis on the skin care aspect of STD treatment alongside standard medical management.

If you are wondering where to get STD treatment, please don’t hesitate to contact us online today or call 212-535-3088. Dr. Michele Green, a board-certified NYC dermatologist, uses the latest techniques at the forefront of skin care to provide the level of care your skin deserves.

Treatments are available for several STD’s:

• HPV Treatment – Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes unsightly genital warts that can be removed through one of several treatments offered at our practice.
• Herpes Treatment – Herpes outbreaks can cause a diffuse rash and visible sores or blisters. The right combination of treatments can help shorten an existing outbreak and limit future outbreaks.
• Syphilis Treatment – Syphilis can cause surface symptoms ranging from mild rashes to ulcerative sores. A combination of medications can resolve the disease itself and address skin problems related to syphilis.

For more information on how to get STD treatment that’s effective, discreet, and incorporates skin care for any visible symptoms, our practice is here to help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About STD Treatment

Which doctor treats STDs?

Primary care physicians, gynecologists, urologists, and infectious disease specialists can diagnose and treat STDs and STIs. Because many STDs cause visible skin symptoms, such as rashes, sores, or genital warts, a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green plays an important role in treating the skin-related complications of these infections, working alongside a patient’s other healthcare providers.

Can a dermatologist diagnose an STD?

Yes, a dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, can identify visible skin manifestations of STDs, such as genital warts, herpes sores, or a syphilis chancre, during a physical examination. Dr. Green may also order blood tests, cultures, or swabs to confirm a diagnosis before recommending an appropriate treatment plan.

Can a dermatologist treat an STD?

A dermatologist can treat the skin symptoms of many STDs, including genital warts, herpetic lesions, and the rashes associated with syphilis. Dr. Green frequently works alongside a patient’s primary care physician or gynecologist to ensure the underlying infection is treated with the appropriate antibiotics or antiviral medications. At the same time, she manages the skin care component of recovery.

Where can I get STD testing and treatment?

STD testing and treatment are available through primary care providers, OB/GYNs, urgent care centers, public health clinics, and select dermatology practices. Dr. Green offers STD treatment focused on skin-related symptoms of these infections and can help coordinate testing and referrals as needed.

How do you get STD treatment?

Getting STD treatment begins with an accurate diagnosis, typically made through a physical examination, blood test, culture, or swab of an active lesion. Once the specific STD is identified, your provider will prescribe the appropriate oral or topical antibiotic or antiviral, or recommend an in-office procedure to resolve the infection and any associated skin symptoms.

Which STD is treated with a shot?

Gonorrhea is commonly treated with a single injection of the antibiotic ceftriaxone, often combined with an oral antibiotic such as azithromycin or doxycycline. Syphilis is also frequently treated with an injection of long-acting penicillin, especially in its early stages.

What is the best treatment for an STD?

The best treatment for an STD depends entirely on the specific infection diagnosed. Bacterial STDs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis typically respond well to antibiotics. In contrast, viral STDs like herpes and HPV are managed with antiviral medications or procedures that reduce symptoms and outbreaks, because these infections cannot be fully cured.

Can an STD be cured with treatment?

Many STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis, can be completely cured with the appropriate course of antibiotics. Viral infections such as herpes and HIV cannot be cured, but treatment can effectively manage symptoms, reduce outbreaks, and lower the risk of transmission.

How long does STD treatment take?

The duration of STD treatment varies by infection. Bacterial STDs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea are often treated with a single dose or a short course of antibiotics lasting about a week. In contrast, viral infections such as herpes may require ongoing or suppressive therapy over a longer period.

How long does it take for an STD to go away after treatment?

Most bacterial STDs begin to resolve within a few days to a week after starting antibiotics, though it’s important to complete the full course as prescribed. Viral STDs, such as herpes outbreaks, typically improve within one to two weeks with antiviral medication, though the virus remains in the body afterward.

How long do STD symptoms last after treatment?

Symptoms of bacterial STDs, such as unusual discharge or painful urination, typically resolve within a few days of starting antibiotics. Symptoms of viral outbreaks, such as herpes sores, usually heal within one to two weeks, though residual sensitivity or mild discomfort can occasionally persist a bit longer.

How do you know if STD treatment is working?

You will generally notice that visible symptoms, such as sores, discharge, or discomfort during urination, begin to improve within a few days of starting treatment. For most bacterial STDs, a follow-up test after completing antibiotic treatment can confirm that the infection has cleared.

How long should you wait to have sex after STD treatment?

Most providers recommend waiting at least seven days after completing treatment for a bacterial STD and until all symptoms have fully resolved before resuming sexual activity. It’s also important that any sexual partners be tested and treated to avoid reinfection.

How long does an STD last without treatment?

Left untreated, many STDs can persist indefinitely, causing symptoms or silently damaging the body. Some bacterial STDs may cause symptoms that come and go, creating the false impression that the infection has resolved, even though it requires antibiotics to fully clear.

Does an STD go away without treatment?

Most STDs will not go away on their own and require appropriate medical treatment to clear the infection. A notable exception is that the body’s immune system often clears many strains of HPV within one to two years without treatment.

What happens if an STD is left untreated?

Untreated STDs can lead to serious health complications, including infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, chronic pain, and an increased risk of certain cancers. Some untreated infections, such as syphilis and HIV, can cause long-term damage to the heart, brain, and nervous system.

Which STDs stay in the body after treatment?

Viral STDs such as herpes (HSV) and HIV remain in the body for life, even when treatment successfully manages symptoms and reduces outbreaks. Bacterial STDs, on the other hand, are typically eliminated once you complete a full course of antibiotics.

How much does STD treatment cost?

The cost of STD treatment varies widely depending on the specific infection and the type of treatment required. The office of Dr. Michele Green in NYC can provide a personalized cost estimate once we diagnose you.

Schedule Your STD Treatment with Dr. Michele Green Today

Sexually transmitted diseases and infections are common, treatable health conditions, but they require an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to the specific infection and its symptoms. From antibiotics that clear chlamydia and gonorrhea to antiviral therapies that manage herpes outbreaks and in-office procedures to remove genital warts, effective STD treatment addresses both the underlying infection and the skin symptoms it leaves behind. Patients throughout New York City trust Dr. Michele Green to provide discreet, comprehensive care for the dermatologic aspects of STD treatment.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally recognized, board-certified dermatologist based on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, with decades of experience helping patients achieve healthy, clear skin. She takes a compassionate, judgment-free approach to every consultation, ensuring patients feel comfortable discussing their symptoms and treatment options. To learn more about the benefits of incorporating skin care into your STD treatment plan, contact us online today or call 212-535-3088.