Preventing trichomoniasis

If you've had trichomoniasis and it's been treated, you won't be immune to the infection andcould get it again.

Like any sexually transmitted infection (STI) , the best way to prevent trichomoniasis is to have safe sex. This means always using a condom .

The following measures will help protect you from trichomoniasis and most other STIs, including chlamydia and gonorrhoea . They'll also help prevent you passing it on to your partner:

• Use condoms (male or female) every time you have vaginal or anal sex.
• If you have oral sex, cover the penis with a condom or the female genitals with a latex or polyurethane square (a dam).
• If you're a woman and rub your vulva against your female partner's vulva, one of you should cover your genitals with a dam.
• Avoid sharing sex toys. If you do share them, wash them or cover them with a new condom before anyone else uses them.

If you're not sure how to use condoms correctly, you can read about how to use a condom .

If you've been diagnosed with trichomoniasis, make sure both you and your partner are treated, and that any sex toys you've used are cleaned.

Getting tested

If you're sexually active, go for regular sexual health check-ups. You can get an appointment by visiting your local genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic.

Find your local sexual health clinic .

If you notice any signs or symptoms of an STI,avoid having sex and visit your GP or GUM clinic as soon as possible.

Further help and advice

Call the Sexual Health Helpline on0300 123 7123 for confidential advice and support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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