Other Infections

Trichomonasis Vaginalis

Trichomonasis vaginalis (Trich) is a parasite that can live in the female vagina and male urethra (opening on the penis). It can survive for a short period of time outside the body. Trich spreads through unprotected vaginal and anal intercourse with an infected partner. Many women experience symptoms such as greenish-yellow discharge, painful urination, vaginal itching, and discomfort during intercourse. Trich can be treated and cured with oral antibiotics.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is an inflammation of the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and/or surrounding tissues. It may be caused by a variety of bacteria and/or viruses, including STBBIs. PID is treated with antibiotics. To ensure that the medication is working and your symptoms are improving, you must return to clinic within 3 to 7 days.

Epididymitis

Epididymitis is an inflammation of the epididymis. This is the tube that stores and transports sperm from the testicles. It may be caused by a variety of bacteria, some of which may be sexually transmitted. Symptoms of epididymitis can include gradual feeling of pain or tenderness in one testicle, swelling, redness or a lump in the affected testicle, fever, discharge from the penis, and even blood in your semen. It can be passed from one partner to the next through anal, vaginal, and oral sex even when there are no symptoms. Epididymitis can be treated with antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medicine. If left untreated, epididymitis can result in pus collecting in your scrotum (abscess) and the inability to produce sperm. 

Non-Gonococcal Urethritis

Non-Gonococcal Urethritis (NGU) is an inflammation of the male urethra with or without discharge. The male urethra is the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. NGU can be caused by a variety of bacteria, including chlamydia. Less common causes are viruses. Most of the bacteria and/or viruses that cause NGU can be transmitted during oral, vaginal, and anal sexual contact. Some symptoms of NGU include discharge from the penis, itching, irritation, and redness around the tip of the penis and a burning sensation when urinating. NGU can be cured using antibiotics. If left untreated, NGU can lead to an infection of the prostate (prostatitis) and epididymitis.

Mucopurulent Cervicitis

Mucopurulent Cervicitis (MPC) is an inflammation of the cervix that may be cause by a variety of bacteria and/or viruses and could be sexually transmitted during oral or vaginal sexual activities. It can take between 1 to 6 weeks for symptoms to develop! Symptoms of MPC include increased vaginal discharge, pain during sex, bleeding between periods or after sex, and long or heavier periods. MPC can be cured typically after 1 week of using antibiotics. If left untreated, MPC can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or the infertility. 

Remember

• Any infection in the genital area may increase the risk of becoming infected with HIV. Practicing safer sex, by using latex or polyurethane condoms and/or dental dams for oral, anal, or vaginal sex can reduce the risk of STIs.
• Order FREE condoms & dental dams today at Sex it Smart!
• Want to get tested? Visit Get Tested Why Not.
• Call the AIDS & Sexual Health Info Line at 1-800-668-2437 if you have questions or need help.