STDs can be divided into two general categories, those that
can be cured and those that currently cannot. Syphilis, chancroid,
gonorrhea, chlamydial infection, and trichomoniasis [trik”o-mo-ní-ah-sis]
are the most common curable STDs seen by FP/MCH providers. All
are bacterial, except for trichomoniasis, which is a protozoan
infection. In this presentation, chlamydial infection will be
referred to as chlamydia.
All incurable STDs are viral. The most dangerous viral STD
is human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which leads to AIDS.
Other incurable viral STDs include human papilloma virus (HPV),
hepatitis B and genital herpes. In this presentation, genital
herpes will be referred to as herpes.
While viral STDs cannot currently be cured, treatment can relieve
some of their symptoms and reduce the severity of some of their
consequences.
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