The Problem with Antibiotic Resistant STDS

Some bacterial STDs have shown increasing resistance to standard treatments.

Gonorrhea is the most well-known example, with documented resistance to multiple antibiotics over time. Current treatment options are more limited than in the past.

Mycoplasma genitalium is another STD with rising resistance, particularly to commonly used antibiotics, making treatment more complex.

Other bacterial infections may also develop resistance when antibiotics are used improperly or incompletely.

Antibiotic resistance develops for several reasons. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics play a major role, including taking antibiotics when they are not needed or not completing prescribed courses.

Resistance can also increase when infections are not properly diagnosed, when partners are not treated simultaneously, or when reinfection occurs repeatedly. Global travel and limited access to testing and follow-up care also contribute to the spread of resistant infections.

When STDs become harder to treat, infections may last longer, cause more severe symptoms, and lead to serious complications.

Untreated or inadequately treated infections can increase the risk of infertility, chronic pain, pregnancy complications, and transmission to others. Antibiotic resistance also limits future treatment options and places greater strain on healthcare systems.

Diagnosis relies on accurate testing, symptom assessment, and awareness of resistance patterns. In some cases, additional testing is needed to guide appropriate treatment when standard therapy fails.

Follow-up testing is often recommended to ensure that treatment has been effective, especially for infections known to have resistance concerns.

Treatment depends on the specific infection and current clinical guidelines. Providers may use higher-dose regimens, alternative antibiotics, or combination therapies when resistance is suspected or confirmed.

Strict adherence to prescribed treatment is essential. Sexual partners must also be treated, and sexual activity should be avoided until treatment is completed and follow-up guidance is given.

Prevention focuses on reducing infection rates and limiting unnecessary antibiotic use.

This includes routine STD testing, early diagnosis, completing all prescribed medications, avoiding sharing antibiotics, and ensuring that sexual partners receive treatment when indicated. Safer sex practices help reduce overall STD transmission and the need for repeated antibiotic exposure.

CallOnDoc provides confidential, evidence-based care for STDs, including guidance for infections with resistance concerns.

Through a virtual visit, you can discuss symptoms, review testing options, receive up-to-date treatment recommendations, and get follow-up guidance — without unnecessary delays or in-person clinic visits.

Healthcare that fits your life — not your calendar.