Why should I get tested?
Trichomoniasis is a common STI, particularly in black females, but many infected individuals remain asymptomatic. Testing is simple and non-invasive. Treatment is simple and effective and will prevent any complications associated with this STI.

What are the ways to reduce the risk of trichomoniasis?
Practicing safe sex with a latex condom significantly reduces the risk of STIs, although it is not 100% effective. Prompt treatment is important. Abstaining from sexual contact until the completion of treatment will prevent the spread of trichomoniasis to your partner.

If I get a positive result, what should I do next?
Contact a health professional to begin a course of prescribed antibiotics as soon as possible. Abstain from sexual contact until the completion of the antibiotic course. Ensure that any recent sexual partners are aware of your diagnosis so they can also request testing.

Can I get trichomoniasis again?
Yes. Although antibiotic treatment is effective for the current bacterial infection, it does not prevent future infections through exposure to an infected individual.

How is trichomoniasis treated?
Trichomoniasis is effectively treated with a course of antibiotics. It is important to complete the antibiotic course as prescribed and to abstain from sexual contact until the treatment is complete.

How common is trichomoniasis?
Any sexually active individual is at risk of trichomoniasis. There are estimated to be 3.7 million infected individuals in the United States. Trichomoniasis prevalence is significantly higher among African American females (9.6-13%), compared to Hispanic (1.4%) and non-Hispanic white females (0.8-1.8%).

Are false-negative and false-positive results possible?
A negative result does not exclude the possibility of infection. False-negative test results may occur due to improper specimen collection, concurrent antibiotic therapy, presence of inhibitors, or organism levels below the sensitivity of this assay (which is common within 2 weeks post-exposure).

False-positive results are rare. A false-positive result may also occur directly after successful antimicrobial therapy, as T. vaginalis nucleic acids may persist for 3 weeks or more.