Trichomoniasis
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 1, 2024.
Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). It is spread between people during sex or genital contact. Trichomoniasis is caused by tiny parasites that are too small to be seen.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Medicines:
- Antibiotics: Always take your antibiotics exactly as ordered by your healthcare provider. Keep taking this medicine as ordered until it is completely gone, even if you feel better. If you stop taking antibiotics before they are gone, they may not completely cure your infection. Never save antibiotics or take leftover antibiotics that were given to you for another illness. Do not drink alcohol while you use antibiotic medicine to treat trichomoniasis. It may make you sick. Wait at least 3 days after your last dose of medicine before you drink alcohol again. Also avoid over-the-counter medicines that contain alcohol, such as certain cough or cold medicines.
- Over-the-counter pain medicine: You may use over-the-counter (OTC) pain medicines, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, for pain or swelling. These medicines may be bought without a healthcare provider's order. These medicines are safe for most people to use. However, they can cause serious problems when they are not used correctly. People with certain medical conditions, or using certain other medicines are at a higher risk for problems. Using too much, or using these medicines for longer than the label says can also cause problems. Follow directions on the label carefully. If you have questions, talk to your healthcare provider.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Self care:
- Sex: Tell your sexual partners that you have this infection. They may also be infected and need treatment. Do not have sex until both you and your partner are done with treatment and all symptoms are gone.
- Bathing and handwashing: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after going to the bathroom. This helps keep your infection from spreading to other parts of your body, such as your eyes. Keep your genital area clean and dry. Take showers instead of baths and use plain, unscented soap.
- Advice for women: Do not douche during treatment unless your healthcare provider tells you to. Do not use feminine hygiene sprays or powders.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
Prevent trichomoniasis:
You can get trichomoniasis more than once. Limit the number of sexual partners you have to decrease your risk for another infection. Do not have unprotected sex (including oral sex). Always wear a latex condom during sex to prevent trichomoniasis and other STIs. Use a new condom after each ejaculation.
For more information:
- Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
1600 Clifton Rd.
Atlanta , GA 30333
Phone: 1- 800 - 232-4636
Web Address: http://www.cdc.gov/std
- American Social Health Association (ASHA)
P.O. Box 13827
Research Triangle Park , NC 27709
Web Address: http://www.ashastd.org
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- Your symptoms become worse, or come back after treatment.
- You have unusual vaginal bleeding.
- You have any problems that may be caused by the medicine you are taking.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Learn more about Trichomoniasis
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- Anticholinergic Drugs to Avoid in the Elderly
- Can You Drink Alcohol with Antibiotics?
- Common Side Effects from Antibiotics, and Allergies and Reactions
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