Currently, there are four sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that cannot be cured, only managed: herpes (HSV), hepatitis B (HBV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and human papillomavirus (HPV).
While many STIs, like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, can be effectively treated and cured with antibiotics or other medications, these four STIs are viral infections that persist in the body long-term. This means that while symptoms can be managed and outbreaks can be controlled, the virus itself remains present.
Here's a more detailed look at each:
- Herpes (HSV): Caused by the herpes simplex virus, herpes can cause painful sores or blisters, typically on the genitals, buttocks, or mouth. Antiviral medications can help to reduce the frequency, duration, and severity of outbreaks, and can also reduce the risk of transmission to partners. There are two types: HSV-1 and HSV-2, typically resulting in oral and genital herpes respectively, though either can affect either area.
- Hepatitis B (HBV): This viral infection affects the liver. While some people clear the infection on their own, others develop a chronic infection. Antiviral medications can help manage the virus and prevent liver damage, but they do not eliminate the virus entirely in chronic cases. A vaccine exists to prevent HBV infection.
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): HIV attacks the immune system, eventually leading to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) if left untreated. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively control the virus, allowing people with HIV to live long and healthy lives. ART can suppress the viral load to undetectable levels, meaning the virus is not actively replicating and cannot be transmitted to sexual partners (Undetectable = Untransmittable or U=U). However, ART does not eliminate the virus from the body.
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV): HPV is a very common virus that can cause genital warts and certain types of cancer, including cervical, anal, and oral cancers. While there's no cure for HPV itself, most infections clear on their own without causing any health problems. Vaccines are available to protect against the types of HPV that are most likely to cause cancer and genital warts. Regular screening (e.g., Pap tests for women) can detect precancerous changes caused by HPV, allowing for early treatment. Genital warts caused by HPV can be treated, but treatment doesn't get rid of the underlying virus.
| STI | Curable? | Management |
|---|---|---|
| Herpes (HSV) | No | Antiviral medications to reduce outbreaks and transmission risk. |
| Hepatitis B (HBV) | No | Antiviral medications to manage the virus and prevent liver damage; Vaccine prevention. |
| HIV | No | Antiretroviral therapy (ART) to control the virus and prevent AIDS. |
| HPV | No | Vaccines for prevention; Screening for cancer; Treatment for warts. |
It is essential to practice safe sex, get tested regularly, and talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns you have regarding STIs. Early diagnosis and management can significantly improve health outcomes and prevent further transmission.
