Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a widespread public health issue, impacting millions of people. Understandably, a common question is: “Will STDs go away on their own?” The answer is complicated and depends on the specific STD.
This article will dive into the different types of STDs — viral, bacterial, and parasitic — and discuss whether they can resolve on their own. We’ll also highlight the importance of getting tested and treated if you suspect you have an STD, so keep reading.
Viral STDs: Persistence and Potential for Clearance
Viral STDs are caused by viruses and can have different effects on the body.
Common viral STDs include:
- HIV
- Herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2)
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- HPV
Some STDs can clear up on their own, while others persist for a lifetime.
STDs with Potential for Natural Clearance
Here are a few viral STDs that your body might be able to clear without medication:
- HPV: In 95% of cases, HPV clears up within two years, thanks to the immune system. However, some strains can lead to cancer, so it’s important to be monitored.
- Hepatitis B: Most adults (90% to 94%) spontaneously clear the infection and fully recover their liver function. However, 5% to 10% develop a chronic infection that needs treatment.
- Hepatitis C: Around 30% of people clear a Hepatitis C infection spontaneously, but the remaining 70% need treatment to avoid long-term liver damage.
Persistent Viral STDs
Unfortunately, some viral STDs don’t go away on their own:
- Herpes: Once you contract herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2), the virus stays in your body for life. It lies dormant and can reactivate, causing outbreaks.
- HIV: The HIV virus multiplies rapidly, overwhelming the immune system and resulting in a chronic infection. While there’s no cure, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively manage the virus.
Bacterial STDs: The Need for Antibiotic Treatment
Sexually transmitted infections of bacterial origin are generally curable with antibiotics. The most common bacterial STDs are chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis.
Chlamydia
Chlamydia almost never clears up on its own. Studies show that chlamydia infections persist if they’re not treated with antibiotics. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 50% of males and 75% of females with chlamydia have no symptoms.
Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea almost never resolves without treatment. One study showed that, after two months, 100% of females who didn’t receive treatment for gonorrhea still had the infection. The CDC estimates that 15% of males and 80% of females with gonorrhea don’t know they have it.
Syphilis
Syphilis requires antibiotic treatment to keep you from developing serious complications. Untreated syphilis can evade your immune system and cause long-term damage. Some of the complications of late-stage syphilis include damage to the brain, nerves, eyes, or heart.
Parasitic STDs: Trichomoniasis and the Importance of Diagnosis
Some STDs are caused by parasites. One of the most common parasitic STDs is trichomoniasis.
Trichomonas Vaginalis
Trichomoniasis doesn’t clear up on its own. In fact, it can hang around for months or even years if you don’t treat it. The CDC estimates that just over 2% of women and about half a percent of men in the U.S. have trichomoniasis.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
It can be hard to know if you have trichomoniasis because the symptoms are often mild, or you might not have any symptoms at all. That’s why it’s important to get tested if you think you might have been exposed.
The dangers of untreated STDs: complications and long-term health risks
Left untreated, sexually transmitted diseases can lead to serious complications and health problems, including infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ectopic pregnancy, and damage to your organs.
Chlamydia and gonorrhea, if not addressed promptly, can cause PID in women, which can then lead to chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility.
One of the trickiest things about STDs is that they’re often asymptomatic, which means you could have one without ever knowing it. This is why regular screening is so important. It’s the best way to catch an infection early and prevent long-term health problems.
If you do test positive for an STD, it’s essential to let your sexual partners know so they can get tested and treated. This prevents them from experiencing complications and helps stop the spread of the infection.
In Summary
Some STDs, like HPV and in some cases Hepatitis B and C, may disappear on their own. But bacterial and parasitic STDs, as well as some persistent viral STDs, need treatment. It’s never a good idea to diagnose yourself based on symptoms alone.
If you’re sexually active, the best way to protect yourself is to get tested regularly. Early detection and treatment are crucial for preventing long-term health problems.
You can also protect yourself and your partners by practicing safe sex (using condoms), getting vaccinated (for HPV and Hepatitis B), and taking PrEP (if you’re at risk for HIV).
Taking proactive steps to protect your sexual health is essential for your overall well-being. If you have any concerns, talk with your healthcare provider.