Trichomoniasis is spread through contact with vaginal discharge which happens most often during vaginal intercourse. However, non-sexual transmission can sometimes occur from penetration from other items like douche nozzles. Fortunately, the parasite can only last up to 24 hours outside of the body.
Trichomoniasis causes irritation within the vaginal canal or vulva. Vaginal irritation can be normal if the irritation only lasts for a few days or gets better after treatment. However, if irritation persists or gets worse, it’s best to talk to your doctor about it and get it properly diagnosed and treated.
Avoid all forms of sexual intercourse including anal and oral sex until you’ve been tested and cleared. You should also inform your sexual partner or partners if you suspect you have an STI/STD and encourage them to also get tested and treated. Some clinics will help you inform your partners anonymously by giving them a contact slip that lets them know they have been exposed to a sexually transmitted infection. It won’t have your name on it and it won’t necessarily tell them what the infection is.
You have had unprotected sex with a new partner. You or your partner has had unprotected sex with others. Your partner tells you they have a sexually transmitted disease. You are pregnant or planning to be pregnant. Your doctor or nurse notices abnormal vaginal discharge or your cervix is red and inflamed.
Your doctor might be able to immediately examine the sample under a microscope and let you know your results right away. Or you may have to wait 7-10 days for your results. During this waiting period, be sure to avoid any sexual activity so you don’t spread an infection if you have one. Blood tests and cervical screening tests don’t test for trichomoniasis. Be sure to ask specifically for a trichomoniasis or STI test.
Be sure to notify your doctor if you are or may be pregnant. Metronidazole is safe for pregnant women. Do not drink alcohol while taking these antibiotics. Contact your doctor if your side effects persist or worsen to a point where it disrupts your day to day life. Tell your doctor immediately or go to an emergency clinic if you experience seizures, numbness or tingling in your hands and feet, or mood or mental changes. Many women who have trichomoniasis also have bacterial vaginosis. Fortunately, the antibiotics used to treat trichomoniasis also treat bacterial vaginosis.
If left untreated, trichomoniasis can increase your chances of getting HIV or increase the likelihood of transmitting HIV to your sexual partners. Trichomoniasis in pregnant women can cause premature ruptures of membranes that protect the baby and cause early delivery.
Using condoms when engaging in oral, anal, and vaginal sex. Avoiding sharing sex toys. If you do share them, wash them or cover then with a new condom anytime anyone new uses it.
Some clinics will help you inform your partners anonymously by giving them a contact slip that lets them know they have been exposed to a sexually transmitted infection. It won’t have your name on it and it won’t necessarily tell them what the infection is but will urge them to get tested.
