There are things you can do to protect yourself from trichomoniasis:
* Don’t have sex. The best way to prevent trichomoniasis or any STD is to practice abstinence, or not having vaginal, oral, or anal sex.
* Be faithful. Have a sexual relationship with one partner who has been tested for trichomoniasis and is not infected is another way to reduce your chances of getting infected. Be faithful to each other, meaning that you only have sex with each other and no one else.
* Use condoms. Protect yourself with a condom EVERY time you have vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Condoms should be used for any type of sex with every partner. For vaginal sex, use a latex male condom or a female polyurethane condom. For anal sex, use a latex male condom. For oral sex, use a dental dam. A dental dam is a rubbery material that can be placed over the anus or the vagina before sexual contact.
* Don’t share swimsuits or towels. The trichomoniasis parasite can live outside the body for up to 45 minutes and can be contracted through contact with damp or moist objects that have the parasite on them.
* Know that some methods of birth control, like birth control pills, shots, implants, or diaphragms, will not protect you from STDs. If you use one of these methods, be sure to also use a latex condom or dental dam (used for oral sex) correctly every time you have sex.
* Talk with your sex partner(s) about STDs and using condoms. It’s up to you to make sure you are protected. Remember, it’s YOUR body! For more information, call the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at (800) 232-4636.
* Talk frankly with your doctor or nurse and your sex partner(s) about any STDs you or your partner have or had. Try not to be embarrassed.
