In order to protect one’s self from a STI the best and most common method is the use of a male condom. However, female condoms also known as the internal condom are also available but they may be more difficult to access. Both condoms provide protection from STIs through anal and vaginal intercourse.
Dental dams can also be used if the patient is going to be performing oral sex on their partner’s vulva or anus. If a person is going to be performing oral sex on a penis, then the male should wear a condom to protect both himself and their partner from transmission of STDs.
Another way to protect against STDs is to get yourself and your partner tested and to engage in mutual monogamy.
Chlamydia and Gonorrhea
- Treatment for gonococcal and chlamydial co-infection is ceftriaxone 250 mg IM in a single dose + azithromycin 1 g PO in a single dose OR cefixime 800 mg PO in a single dose + azithromycin 1 g PO in a single dose.
Herpes simplex virus
- Treatment for HSV infection depends on whether it is the first episode or not. If it is the first episode then it’s 1000 mg valacyclovir PO twice daily for 10 days.
- If it’s a recurrent lesion or episode then it’s 1000 mg valacyclovir PO once daily for 3 days.
Trichomoniasis
- For trichomonas treat with metronidazole 2 g PO in a single dose OR 500 mg twice daily for 7 days.
Syphilis
- Syphilis is treated with benzathine penicillin G 2.4 million units IM in a single session.