What to expect from antibiotic treatment for pelvic infection for trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite and can affect the vagina, penis, or urinary and genital areas. A clinician may prescribe an oral antibiotic in a single planned dose or a longer schedule, depending on your circumstances. Take it exactly as directed and do not save part of the treatment for later.

Burning, itching, irritation, unusual discharge, or discomfort during sex may improve after treatment, but symptoms can have other causes. Testing may be recommended when symptoms continue or return. Treatment does not protect against catching trichomoniasis again.

Avoid vaginal, oral, and anal sex until you and current partners have completed treatment and your clinician says it is appropriate to resume. Partners may need treatment even if they have no symptoms, because infection can be present without obvious signs.

Follow the instructions about alcohol and the medicine you were given, as some antibiotics can interact with alcohol. Tell the prescriber if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, allergic to a medicine, or taking regular treatment. Use condoms after treatment if advised, and arrange repeat testing when recommended.

Contact a clinician if symptoms remain after the prescribed treatment, return, or are joined by pelvic pain, fever, bleeding, or pain when passing urine. You may need an examination or testing for another infection rather than another course chosen without assessment.

Get urgent help for severe pelvic pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, high fever, or signs of an allergic reaction such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing.

Ask which dose schedule applies to you, when sex can resume, how partners should be treated, and whether you need testing for other sexually transmitted infections. Ask what to do if you vomit after taking the medicine or symptoms come back.