Question 1

What exactly is trichomoniasis and how do I get it?

Accepted Answer

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a tiny parasite that spreads from person to person during sex. You get it by having sexual contact with someone who has the infection. (Source: MedlinePlus)

Question 2

Can men have symptoms of trichomoniasis too?

Accepted Answer

Yes, men can have symptoms of trichomoniasis, though most men don't have any. If they do, symptoms may include itching or irritation inside the penis, burning after urination or ejaculation, or discharge from the penis. (Source: MedlinePlus)

Question 3

How does having trichomoniasis affect my pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

If you have trichomoniasis while pregnant, you're more likely to give birth too early, and your baby is more likely to have a low birth weight. Treatment is important to protect your pregnancy. (Source: MedlinePlus)

Question 4

Does trichomoniasis increase the risk of other infections?

Accepted Answer

Yes, trichomoniasis can increase your risk of getting or spreading other sexually transmitted infections. This is another reason why getting treated quickly is important. (Source: MedlinePlus)

Question 5

Is there a way to prevent getting trichomoniasis?

Accepted Answer

Using latex condoms correctly greatly reduces your risk of getting trichomoniasis, though it doesn't eliminate it completely. The most reliable way to avoid infection is to not have vaginal, anal, or oral sex. (Source: MedlinePlus)

Question 6

How do you test for trichomoniasis?

Accepted Answer

Lab tests can diagnose trichomoniasis by checking a sample from your body. Your doctor will take a sample and send it to a lab to look for the parasite. (Source: MedlinePlus)

Question 7

Will I need any special tests if I don't have symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you should still get tested even if you don't have symptoms, because many people with trichomoniasis don't feel anything but can still spread it to others. Testing is the only way to know for sure if you're infected. (Source: MedlinePlus)

Question 8

Can a regular pelvic exam show signs of trichomoniasis?

Accepted Answer

A regular pelvic exam alone cannot diagnose trichomoniasis—you need a lab test to confirm it. However, your doctor might notice signs during an exam that suggest you need testing. (Source: MedlinePlus)

Question 9

What happens during the lab testing process?

Accepted Answer

During lab testing, your doctor takes a small sample from your vagina, urethra, or other area and sends it to a lab where technicians look for the parasite under a microscope or use other detection methods. (Source: MedlinePlus)

Question 10

Are there other infections that might be tested at the same time?

Accepted Answer

Yes, your doctor may test you for other sexually transmitted infections at the same time, since trichomoniasis increases your risk of catching other STIs. It's a good idea to get tested for multiple infections together. (Source: MedlinePlus)

Question 11

How is trichomoniasis treated?

Accepted Answer

Trichomoniasis is treated with antibiotics that kill the parasite. Both you and your sexual partner must be treated to prevent passing the infection back and forth. (Source: MedlinePlus)

Question 12

Do I need to take medicine even if I don't have symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you should take medicine even if you don't have symptoms, because you can still spread the infection to others and it can cause problems like early birth if you're pregnant. Treatment protects both you and your partners. (Source: MedlinePlus)

Question 13

What happens if my partner isn't treated too?

Accepted Answer

If your partner isn't treated, you can get infected again even after your treatment works. That's why it's essential that both partners get treated at the same time. (Source: MedlinePlus)

Question 14

Can I get trichomoniasis again after treatment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can get trichomoniasis again after treatment if you have sex with someone who has the infection. Using condoms and getting tested regularly can help prevent reinfection. (Source: MedlinePlus)

Question 15

Are there alternative treatments besides antibiotics?

Accepted Answer

Antibiotics are the standard and most effective treatment for trichomoniasis—there are no proven alternative treatments. It's important to take the antibiotics your doctor prescribes. (Source: MedlinePlus)

Question 16

What medications will I need to take for trichomoniasis?

Accepted Answer

Your doctor will prescribe specific antibiotics to treat trichomoniasis, but the exact medication and dosage depend on your individual situation. Ask your doctor which medicine you'll be taking. (Source: MedlinePlus)

Question 17

Can these medicines cause side effects?

Accepted Answer

Antibiotics can cause side effects in some people, such as nausea, headache, or stomach upset, but serious side effects are rare. Tell your doctor if you have any concerning reactions to the medicine. (Source: MedlinePlus)

Question 18

How long do I have to wait before having sex again?

Accepted Answer

You should wait until you've finished all your antibiotics and your symptoms are gone before having sex again. It's also best to wait until your partner has finished treatment to avoid reinfection. (Source: MedlinePlus)

Question 19

Will the medicine affect my birth control?

Accepted Answer

Most antibiotics used for trichomoniasis don't affect birth control pills, but some medications can interfere with certain types of birth control. Ask your doctor if your specific antibiotic affects your birth control method. (Source: MedlinePlus)

Question 20

Are there any over-the-counter treatments available?

Accepted Answer

No, there are no over-the-counter treatments for trichomoniasis—you need a prescription antibiotic from a doctor. Don't try to treat it yourself with home remedies, as they won't work. (Source: MedlinePlus)