The method used to treat a sexually transmitted disease (STD) depends on the cause of the disease. STDs caused by bacteria, such as chlamydia, syphilis and gonorrhea, are usually treated with antibiotics. STDs caused by parasites are also treated with medications or over–the–counter drugs. Current medications allow for most STDs caused by bacteria and parasites to be cured when treated early.

STDs caused by viruses, such as HIV/AIDS, genital herpes and human papillomavirus (HPV), are treated differently then those caused by bacteria or parasites because usually they cannot be cured. Instead, medical treatment is used to control the disease. Drugs may be used to reduce the severity of symptoms and the frequency of outbreaks but they are often unsuccessful. For a virus such as HPV, which may cause the development of warts on the skin, treatment may focus on removing the warts with chemicals or surgery.

Having a curable STD may not prevent a person from developing the disease again. Individuals being treated for an STD are encouraged to abstain from all sexual activity until treatment is complete. Abstinence is necessary during this period to prevent reinfection.