Trichomoniasis: Prevention

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Prevention

Take measures to reduce your risk of becoming infected with trichomoniasis (trich) or other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, or syphilis. You can also reduce the risk of transmitting an STD to your sex partner(s).

Practice safe sex

Preventing an STD is easier than treating an infection after it occurs.

• Talk with your partner about STDs before beginning a sexual relationship. Find out if he or she is at risk for an STD. Remember that it is quite possible to be infected with an STD without knowing it. It can take up to 6 months before some STDs, such as HIV, are detected in the blood.
• Be responsible.
  • Avoid sexual contact if you have symptoms of an STD or are being treated for an STD.
  • Avoid all intimate sexual contact with anyone who has symptoms of an STD.
• Don't have more than one sex partner at a time. Your risk of getting an STD increases if you have several sex partners at the same time.

Male condom use

Condom use may reduce the risk of becoming infected with an STD. Condoms must be put on before beginning any sexual contact. Use condoms with a new partner until you are certain he or she does not have an STD. Male or female condoms can be used. It is important that you use a condom properly to prevent the risk of trich infection. For more information, see how to use a condom.

Female condom use

Even if you are using a birth control method to prevent pregnancy, you may wish to use condoms to reduce your risk of getting an STD. Female condoms are available for women whose partners do not have or will not use a male condom. For more information, see how to use a female condom.

Last updated:	July 22, 2008
Author:	Sandy Jocoy, RN
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Tracy Landauer