The best "treatment" for STDs is prevention by practicing safe sex. Avoiding multiple sexual partners and using condoms during sex can prevent most STDs. Other forms of birth control, such as birth control pills, spermicides, diaphragms, and IUDs do not prevent the spread of STDs.

The treatment of an STD depends on the STD. Antibiotics are used to treat STDs such as gonorrhea and syphilis. Lotions and shampoos can cure pubic lice (crabs). However, some sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS and genital herpes, do not have a cure. Medicines are available to control the diseases, but medical follow-up is necessary. In the case of HIV/AIDS, medical follow-up will be for the rest of the patient's life.