Sexually Transmitted Diseases Part 2 - The Curable Ones

Fortunately, most STD's are now curable. So what do we need to know about these?

Chlamydia
This is incredibly common bacterial infection and rates of infection are increasing particularly in teenage women. It generally gets passed through sexual fluids, so using condoms provides a lot of protection. It does not generally present with symptoms, but can be tested for with a simple urine test. It can cause infertility if left untreated, so just one more reason to get tested regularly!
Chlamydia can be treated with antibiotics, but since it's bacterial (and not viral) people can get it more than once, so if someone has it their sexual partners should be tested (and treated) too, or they'll be reinfected. It's also important to take the full prescribed course of antibiotics, the the disease does not become resistant.

Gonorrhea ("the clap")
Another bacterial infection that is becoming more common. Gonorrhea is spread by skin-to-skin contact, so condoms provide only a bit of protection. A genital infection causes puss and sometimes blood to come from the genitals, and painful peeing. If left untreated it can cause infertility.
Gonorrhea can be treated with antibiotics. Same story as chlamydia: everyone involved needs to be treated, and the full course needs to be taken.

Pubic Lice ("Crabs")
These are insects that live specifically on pubic hair. They are generally passed through skin-to-skin contact. They cannot be passed to or from animals (except gorillas, if that's an issue for you). The symptoms of lice are itching and occasionally blue spots due to their bites.
You can get rid on lice through shaving, using a special shampoo, and washing all cloth that comes in contact with the genitals (underwear, sheets, towels, etc.) thoroughly.

Syphilis
This is a bacterial infection that was nearly eradicated in the US, but is now increasing. Syphilis is pass through contact with syphilis sores. The initial symptoms are sores, rash, hair lose and mild fever or sore throat. Afterward, the disease lies dormant (infection-wise) in the body, eventually it can cause brain damage and death. Syphilis also makes it easier to get HIV.
Syphilis used to kill many people--syphilitic madness was well-known, but it's easily cured with penicillin. If you get syphilis a doctor can give you a dose of penicillin (or another antibiotic, for those of us who are allergic), and you'll be good to go. Again, everyone involved needs to be treated so people don't get re-infected.

And I think we have the different STDs covered!
More information on STDs can be found at Scarleteen