TRICHOMONIASIS

Trichomoniasis is the most common curable STI. Millions of people are infected each year in the United States.

SYMPTOM OVERVIEW

Signs in women include excessive, frothy, yellowish or greenish vaginal discharge. There may also be swelling of the vulva and labia along with painful urination. Symptoms in men may include painful urination with lesions on the penis, but most men with trichomoniasis will have no symptoms.

TREATMENT

Trichomoniasis can be treated and cured with antibiotics. It is extremely important to treat partners of anyone with trichomoniasis because reinfection is very common.

CONSIDERATIONS

Avoid drinking alcohol until 24–48 hours after finishing treatment (depending on the type of antibiotic prescribed). Trichomoniasis has been linked to an increased risk of HIV acquisition.

PROTECTING YOURSELF

As with all STIs, the most effective protection is to abstain from sexual activity or be monogamous with one long-term partner who has tested negative for trichomoniasis. Latex condoms and dental dams can help reduce the risk of contracting or spreading the infection.

Type of Test

Testing involves having a health care provider take a swab sample from the infected area to examine under a microscope or send to a lab.

Test Timing

It depends on the lab used by your health care provider, but usually a couple of days to a week. If your test is positive, you may be asked to come back for another test in a few months.