Even with proper diagnosis and treatment of a sexually transmitted disease (STD), repeat treatment may be necessary. This article discusses the situations where repeat STD treatment may be necessary and highlights the importance of follow-up testing.
Not all STDs require treatment, such as mycoplasma, but the majority, such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis, do require treatment. Although often one treatment is sufficient, there are situations where repetition is necessary to ensure complete cure.
Gonorrhoea can manifest in different locations such as the penis/vagina, throat and anus. Treatment may vary depending on the location of the infection. Especially in the case of throat gonorrhoea, there is a 10% chance that standard treatment with Ceftriaxone is not sufficient, necessitating a follow-up test, known as 'test-of-cure'. This test is ideally performed six weeks after the initial treatment to confirm that the infection has cleared completely.
Syphilis requires a sensitive approach depending on the stage of infection. Primary syphilis can usually be managed with one treatment, while longer or unknown duration of infection may require multiple treatments. It is essential to base treatment on accurate diagnostic information and to perform regular blood tests to assess the effectiveness of treatment.
Regardless of the STD, follow-up tests are crucial to ensure that the treatment was effective. These tests help in early detection of any persistent or repeated infections, which is crucial in preventing further health damage.
Carefully following treatment instructions and performing the recommended follow-up tests are essential for effective management of STDs. By being proactive in your care, you can prevent more serious health problems and lead a healthier sex life.