STD Treatment Singapore: Myths vs. Facts

If you suspect that you have or may have been exposed to an STD, the person you will want to see for STD screening and treatment is a medical professional like a nurse practitioner, a doctor, or a sexual health professional. These groups of professionals cannot only provide accurate diagnoses.

They can also recommend appropriate options for STD treatment in Singapore to effectively manage your condition. Treatment for STDs typically involves medication, which can vary depending on the specific infection. Read more about STD screening on this page: https://www.drbenmedical.sg/std-testing-singapore-screening/.

Antibiotics are commonly prescribed for bacterial infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Antiviral medications may be used to treat viral infections like herpes, HIV, and hepatitis.

In some cases, such as with HIV, treatment may involve a combination of medications known as antiretroviral therapy (ART). In today’s piece, we debunk popular myths about STD treatment in Singapore. But first;

What are 2 STDs that cannot be Cured?

Just suspecting that you may have been exposed to an STD can be terrifying. And this partly explains why there are so many searches online on the key phrase; what are 2 STDs that cannot be cured?

As of the time of writing this article, there are four sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) that cannot be cured. These STDs include; herpes (HSV), hepatitis B (HBV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and human papillomavirus (HPV).

The remaining STDs are typically curable through medication. By this we mean that the infection can be eliminated from the body if the right medication regimen is followed. Here’s what you need to know about STDs that cannot be cured;

• Herpes (HSV): This STD is caused by the herpes simplex virus. There are two types; HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 usually causes oral herpes, and HSV-2 does cause genital herpes. While there is no cure for herpes, antiviral medications can help manage outbreaks and reduce the risk of transmission.
• Hepatitis B (HBV): This STD affects the liver and can lead to serious conditions like liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. Although a vaccine is available to prevent HBV infection, those who contract the virus can only manage it with antiviral medications to control liver damage and reduce the risk of transmission.
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV): HIV attacks the immune system which may lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) if not treated. While there is no cure for HIV, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively control the virus. This way, patients can live long, healthy lives even with HIV. Also, there are PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) that can be used as a preventive medication for those at high risk of contracting HIV.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV): This is the most common STI, with over 200 different types. Some types cause genital warts, while others, particularly HPV 16 and 18, are linked to cancers such as cervical cancer. There is no cure for HPV. However, some vaccines can be used to prevent new infections, and regular screening can detect high-risk infections early.

STD Myths You Shouldn’t Pay Attention to

When it comes to STD treatment in Singapore, there are so many myths that can be hugely misleading. To reduce this misinformation, we debunk 10 common myths about STD treatment;

1.      Myth: Only Promiscuous People Get STDs

Reality: Anyone who is sexually active can contract an STD. STDs don’t discriminate based on the number of sexual partners. Even if you have only one partner, you’re still at risk if your partner has an STD.

2.      Myth: You Can Tell if Someone Has an STD by Looking at Them

Reality: Many STDs don’t show visible symptoms. This is particularly true for many STDs in the early stages. Someone might look perfectly healthy and still carry an STD. To know for sure if you’re healthy, your best bet is regular testing.

3.      Myth: STDs Always Show Symptoms

Reality: Many STDs are asymptomatic. This means that they can stay in your system for very long without showing symptoms. Take for example chlamydia and gonorrhea. These STDs can go unnoticed for a long time a situation which may lead to serious health complications if left untreated.

4.      Myth: You Can’t Get an STD from Oral Sex

Reality: STDs can be transmitted through oral sex. Infections like herpes, gonorrhea, and syphilis can be spread through oral-genital contact. Using protection during all types of sexual activity is essential. Just to add to that, even sharing sex toys puts you at risk of getting some STDs.

5.      Myth: Antibiotics Cure All STDs

Reality: Now, antibiotics can treat bacterial STDs like chlamydia and gonorrhea. But, they’re ineffective against viral infections like herpes and HIV. Usually, treatment for viral STDs focuses on managing symptoms and reducing transmission risk.

6.      Myth: You Can Get an STD from a Toilet Seat

Reality: STDs are not transmitted through casual contact. The organisms that cause STDs cannot survive long outside the human body. This means that transmission from toilet seats remains highly unlikely.

7.      Myth: If You Don’t Have Symptoms, You Don’t Need to Get Tested

Reality: Asymptomatic STDs are common which means that you can carry and spread an infection without knowing it. This is why we insist on not just STD treatment in Singapore. We also strongly recommend regular testing, especially if you’re sexually active or have multiple partners.

8.      Myth: Condoms Protect Against All STDs

Reality: While condoms significantly reduce the risk of many STDs, they’re not foolproof. Skin-to-skin contact diseases like herpes and HPV can still be transmitted even when using a condom. However, consistent and correct use of condoms greatly reduces risk.

9.      Myth: Once Treated, an STD is Gone Forever

Reality: Some STDs can be cured with treatment. And, there are those, like herpes and HIV that can remain in your body for life. Even if symptoms are managed, you can still transmit these infections to others.

10.  Myth: Natural Remedies Can Cure STDs

Reality: There is no scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of natural remedies in curing STDs. Relying on such treatments can delay proper medical care and lead to severe health issues. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.

In Closing

The best bet against all forms of STDs is regular screening. If you’re diagnosed with STD, seek help from a facility with a solid reputation for STD treatment in Singapore. Thorough treatment and management are necessary to prevent spreading the infection to your partner.

Get Help

Do you have an STD and considering STD treatment in Singapore or you’re afraid you might have been exposed and contemplating STD screening? Connect with us now to arrange for a confidential thorough assessment. Details below;

Dr. Ben Medical @ Tanjong Pagar | ED Treatment | STD Treatment Singapore

160 Robinson Road, #03-09,

SBF Center, Medical Suites,

Singapore 068914

+65 8881 2344