If it turns out you have it, trichomoniasis treatment is easy: your nurse or doctor will give you medicine. Accessed Feb. 9, 2022. Trichomoniasis: Is it always sexually transmitted? . What is the global incidence of trichomoniasis. Sexually transmitted infections among US women and men: Prevalence and incidence estimates, 2018. It is not common for the parasite to infect other body parts, like the hands, mouth, or anus. A person can also be re-infected with trichomoniasis after having been treated previously. If the test doesn't show the parasite, but your provider thinks you may have trichomoniasis, other tests may be done. These most commonly include, metronidazole (Flagyl) and tinidazole (Tindamax). Itching, burning, redness or soreness of the genitals; A clear, white, yellowish, or greenish vaginal discharge (i.e., thin discharge or increased volume) with a fishy smell. Your doctor may suggest waiting 12 to 24 hours after taking metronidazole before breastfeeding. What is trichomoniasis life cycle? mango milk shake is thick and creamy in texture with the flavour of king of fruits - mango. you'll also learn what to do if you think you might have trichomoniasis. Like a lot of infections, trichomoniasis in men is a little different from trichomoniasis in women. It's spread when semen (cum) , pre-cum, and vaginal fluids get on or inside your penis, vulva, or vagina. In men, the parasite infects the inside of the penis (urethra). This prevents getting the infection again right way (reinfection). According to Medscape, there could be more than 220 million cases of trichomoniasis worldwide. Trichomoniasis increases the risk that other STIs, including HIV, will be spread from person to person. They aren't 100 percent effective at preventing STIs or STDs. Please enter your age and the first day of your last period for more accurate abortion options. If youre diagnosed with trichomoniasis (AKA trich, for short), anyone youve been having sex with should be treated as well so that you dont pass it back and forth. Having trichomoniasis can also increase your risk of developing another STI, including HIV, in the future, so its important to follow up with treatment. 4): 1-187. It is not possible to diagnose trich based on symptoms alone. trichomoniasis is passed on by having sex, . To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which Trichomoniasis also appears to make it easier to become infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Merck Manual Professional Version. Last medically reviewed on July 30, 2018. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If only 30 percent of people with trichomoniasis have symptoms, that means that 70 percent of folks with trichomoniasis have no symptoms. Van Der Pol B, et al. Vaginal, oral, or anal sex. In: KK Holmes, PF Sparling, WE Stamm, P Piot, JN Wasserheit, L Corey, MS Cohen, DH Watts (editors). Copyright Merative 2023 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes. However, keep in mind that the infection typically doesn't present symptoms in most people who have it. Trichomoniasis in women can often go undiagnosed, even though its a really common STD. information highlighted below and resubmit the form. A false-positive Trichomonas vaginalis result due to Trichomonas tenax presence in clinical specimens may reveal a possible T. Certain parasites such as pubic lice (crabs) or trichomoniasis can be transmitted by coming into contact with articles of clothing, bed sheets, dirty towels etc. Thats because many people no matter what their gender is dont have any symptoms, or the symptoms they do have are so mild that they dont notice them. Symbiomix Therapeutics; 2021. https://www.solosec.com/. Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (sti) that is spread by having sex with an infected partner. If the parasite can be seen under the microscope, no further tests are needed. Here are a few ways to get trichomoniasis that is not sexually transmitted: Toilets. You should abstain completely from alcohol while you take metronidazole and at least for 3 days after finishing the treatment course. Trichomoniasis called trich for short is an STD thats cured with antibiotics. https://www.cdc.gov/std/trichomonas/stdfact-trichomoniasis.htm. STIs can pass through any skin-to-skin contact, which means oral sex still poses a risk of STI transmission. Trichomoniasis can cause symptoms in people of any gender. Trichomoniasis is caused by a one-celled protozoan, a type of tiny parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. 2023 Greatist, a Healthline Media Company. STIs tested: chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis C, HIV, syphilis, and trichomoniasis EverlyWell seems to check all the boxes as an at-home option that tests for the most common STIs. Trich is caused by a really tiny parasite called a trichomona (you cant Van Der Pol B. Data sources include IBM Watson Micromedex (updated 1 May 2023), Cerner Multum (updated 17 Apr 2023), ASHP (updated 10 Apr 2023) and others. The parasite is spread most often through vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Keep in mind that you can become reinfected with trichomoniasis in the future even after receiving treatment one time. the bodily location of this sexually transmitted infection depends on whether youre a man or a woman. The CDC offers a free tool that helps you locate STI testing near you. Trichomoniasis: Is it always sexually transmitted? Always wear a latex condom during sex to prevent trichomoniasis and other STIs. Trichomoniasis isnt spread through casual contact, so you cant get it from sharing food or drinks, kissing, hugging, holding hands, coughing, sneezing, or sitting on toilet seats. A research review showed that 40 to 49-year-old women are more likely to contract the infection than their younger counterparts. The risk for African-American women goes up with age and lifetime number of sex partners.2. In men, the parasite usually infects the urethra inside the penis. Merck Manual Professional Version. Having a game plan is key. X. Tests include a rapid antigen test and nucleic acid amplification test. It affects one in five women in the United - stds / stis. (2017). Sobel JD, et al. Kandamuthan S, et al. Still, theres always a (very) slim chance that you or your partner developed it from something nonsexual, such as: Keep in mind that there are very few reported cases of trichomoniasis being spread through these means, but it is possible. Treatment can be given during pregnancy. Trichomoniasis is caused by the single-celled protozoan parasite, Trichomonas vaginalis. Trichomoniasis can be transmitted during vaginal, anal, or oral sex, and genital touching. The parasite is carried in sexual fluids, like semen, pre cum, and vaginal fluids. WebThe only way to get rid of trichomoniasis is to get treated with medicine. This treatment is also safe for pregnant people. Trichomoniasis can be spread even if there are no symptoms. Nowadays, there are tons of at-home STD test kits. If youre getting tested for trichomoniasis, its a good idea to also get tested for chlamydia or gonorrhea. Trichomoniasis is associated with an increased risk of cervical or prostate cancer. The OWH helpline does not provide medical advice. Last updated on May 1, 2023. Trichomoniasis is caused by tiny parasites that are too small to be seen. The parasite can cause someone to experience the infection for months while they show zero symptoms. We'll go over how trichomoniasis is spread and tell you what it may mean if your partner contracts it You can get trichomoniasis more than once. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. Pregnant women with trichomoniasis also have a higher risk of preterm labor and having a baby with low birth weight.Get tested at home with LetsGetChecked testing kits: Fortunately, trichomoniasis is very easy to treat. Tell him or her if you have a history of STIs. A man does not need to ejaculate (come) for trichomoniasis to spread. So yes its possible to get trichomoniasis even if no one cheats. pain during sex. Although antibiotics can help treat bacterial vaginosis (BV), it often comes back. December 30, 2022, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome/Opioid Withdrawal in Infants, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention (NCHHSTP), CDC, HHS, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), NIH, HHS, Sexually transmitted infections fact sheet, Sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, 2015 Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines; Diseases Characterized by Vaginal Discharge; Trichomoniasis, National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. If young children and teenagers get trichomoniasis, it may be a sign of sexual abuse. All rights reserved. If we combine this information with your protected They can only be spread sexually. About 7 out of 10 people with trich have no signs of the infection at all. People with trichomoniasis often have these STIs, too. In very rare cases, it can spread through sharing personal items, such as towels. For people with vaginas, the infection can live in the vagina, vulva, cervix, or urethra. Homepage FAQ How can you get trichomoniasis if no one cheats? Did he cheat and give me trichimoniasis? Please don't check this box if you are a human. Donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowable under the law. You may not have any symptoms. Antibiotic Shortages: A Serious Safety Concern. In women, this includes the outer part of the genitals (vulva), vagina, opening of the uterus (cervix) and the urinary opening (urethra). Most infected women have no symptoms. OWH and the OWH helpline do not see patients and are unable to: diagnose your medical condition; provide treatment; prescribe medication; or refer you to specialists. Planned Parenthood delivers vital reproductive health care, sex education, and information to millions of people worldwide. What's the difference between ice cream and custard, https://www.healthsoothe.com/how-can-you-get-trichomoniasis-if-no-one-cheats/how-can-you-get-trichomoniasis-if-no-one-cheats-2/, https://www.stigmahealth.com/the-facts-about-trichomoniasis/, https://www.healthsoothe.com/how-can-you-get-trichomoniasis-if-no-one-cheats/trichomoniasis-test/, https://www.rampfesthudson.com/did-my-husband-give-trichomoniasis/. A racial criterion is significant in cases of infections: black women by 13.3%, Hispanic women by 1.8%, and white women by 1.3% in the US. Its more common for men to be asymptomatic carriers of trichomoniasis. All information these cookies collect is aggregated and therefore anonymous. Women are prone to be infected as they age over 40 at an 11% peaking rate. Here's how to figure out what type of test you need, which products to consider, and when to see a doctor in person. DOI: soc.ucsb.edu/sexinfo/article/non-sexual-transmission-stis, womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/trichomoniasis, cdc.gov/std/trichomonas/stdfact-trichomoniasis.htm, avert.org/sex-stis/sexually-transmitted-infections/trichomoniasis, labtestsonline.org/tests/trichomonas-testing, Apple Cider Vinegar for BV (Bacterial Vaginosis), This Is Why Bacterial Vaginosis Can Recur While Dating the Same Partner, How to Stop Bacterial Vaginosis from Coming Back Again. When it does cause symptoms, the most common one is vaginitis. If you do notice signs of trich, get tested right away. Enter a city, ZIP code (such as 20002), address, state, or place. Trichomoniasis. Accessed Feb. 9, 2022. Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause a range of manifestations, from uncomfortable symptoms to being completely asymptomatic for a long time. Getting tested for trichomoniasis is the only way to know if you have the infection. Trichomoniasis can increase your chances of getting another STI, so its best to check if trich brought any +1s to the STI party. In women, trichomoniasis signs and symptoms include: In men, trichomoniasis rarely causes symptoms. Ask them if you should get tested for trich or other STDs. See additional information. It is one of the most common STIs in the United States and affects more women than men. Asked by: Ismael Fay. Trichomoniasis can be spread even if there are no symptoms. your local Planned Parenthood health center, Who We Are: Americas Most Trusted Name in Sexual Health. This can open the pathway to talk about STI testing. Beyond the. Forgot the Condom? If you do get symptoms of trichomoniasis, they usually show up from 3 days to a month after you get the infection. They help us to know which pages are the most and least popular and see how visitors move around the site. Ginger If you receive and complete treatment for trich, you can still get it again. How can you get trichomoniasis if no one cheats? Your health care provider may also look at a sample of vaginal fluid for women or a swab from inside the penis (urethra) for men under a microscope. Trichomoniasis(TRIK-uh-muh-NEYE-uh-suhss)or "trich" is asexually transmitted infection (STI)caused by aparasite. It is unclear why some people with the infection get symptoms while others do not. You can get tested for trich and other STDs at your nurse or doctors office, a community health clinic, or your local Planned Parenthood health center. Believe it or not, its possible to develop new symptoms of trichomoniasis even if no one has cheated in your relationship. Vaginitis is when your vulva or vagina is irritated. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 3.7 million people in the United States contract trich. Your doctor or nurse will give you medicine. we were both treated and since i had never heard of this particular std i just assumed it was something anyone having sex could get, like a yeast infection. Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis that can live in semen or vaginal fluids. Other symptoms of trich include pain and burning when you pee, the urge to pee a lot, discharge from your urethra, and itching and irritation inside your penis. Ask your healthcare provider when it is safe to have sex again. Im experiencing trich symptoms, now what? However, this is extremely rare. Anyone you have had sex with recently must also be treated. Help us improve - how could this information be more helpful? This infection can be treated with a single dose of an antibiotic and antiprotozoal medication called metronidazole. How can you get trichomoniasis if no one cheats the parasite is a sexually transmitted infection that can be passed from person to person through unprotected anal, oral or vaginal sex. But trich is most likely to cause vaginitis. This means that trichomoniasis can be transmitted through sex without a barrier method, vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Jump to Your Week of Pregnancy The site is secure. While it can definitely be fun, it can also be very, Bleeding after a fingering session is common. Either partner may have gotten it in a previous relationship and unknowingly passed it on. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. The OWH helpline is a resource line. Make sure you take the full course of antibiotics. And ejaculation doesnt have to happen to transmit that parasite, so pulling out wont save you. Accessed Feb. 9, 2022. We receive compensation from the providers of the services and products featured on this website. The best way to prevent trichomoniasis or any STI is to not have vaginal, oral, or anal sex. When trich does cause symptoms, they can range from mild irritation to severe inflammation. 2. There are many STDs known today, making it sometimes confusing to know which test you should get and when. The antibiotic metronidazole can be used to treat trichomoniasis during any stage of pregnancy. CDC twenty four seven. Many women have no symptoms. If you do get symptoms, they might appear five to 28 days after exposure and can include: If you think you may have trichomoniasis, you and your sex partner(s) need to see a doctor or nurse as soon as possible. Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines, 2021. Read more to find out about getting tested and to see Healthlines picks for the best options. Trichomoniasis is easily treated with antibiotics, such as metronidazole (Flagyl) and tinidazole (Tindamax). 9 a.m. 6 p.m. Anticholinergic Drugs to Avoid in the Elderly, Common Side Effects from Antibiotics, and Allergies and Reactions, Four Common Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Take Away Points, Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American Social Health Association (ASHA). Your health care provider may diagnose trichomoniasis by doing an exam of the genitals and lab tests. DOI: Trichomoniasis symptoms and treatment. While trichomoniasis is almost always spread through sexual contact, about 70 percent of people with the infection dont show any symptoms. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/infectious-diseases/sexually-transmitted-diseases-stds/trichomoniasis. If you have symptoms, they usually appear 5 to 28 days after you were exposed. The most sure way to prevent trichomoniasis is to use a barrier method during sex like a condom, diaphragm, or dental dam. 1101 Wootton Pkwy, Rockville, MD 20852 1-800-994-9662 Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Peterman TA, Tian LH, Metcalf CA, Satterwhite CL, Malotte CK, DeAugustine N, Paul SM, Cross H, Rietmeijer CA, Douglas JM Jr; RESPECT-2 Study Group. Trichomoniasis is commonly transmitted between a person with a penis and a person with a vagina or between two people with vaginas. How can i get trichomoniasis if no one cheats? Priority STD is a leading STI testing service with a strong reputation for thoroughness, speed, and reliability. For example, trich can cause genital inflammation, making it easier toget HIV, or pass it to a sex partner. Parasitic STIs are the only STIs that could be commonly passed or contracted through these kinds of surfaces. A retest two weeks to three months after treatment can check to be sure the infection is gone and that you haven't been reinfected. Risk factors for getting trichomoniasis include having: Pregnant women who have trichomoniasis might: Having trichomoniasis causes irritation in the genital area that may make it easier for other STIs to enter the body or to pass them to others. https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/trichomoniasis.htm. If you have trichomoniasis, your provider may also do tests for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) so they can also be treated. Alcohol and metronidazole can interact and cause unpleasant adverse effects such as: You will need to abstain from sex until you complete your trichomoniasis treatment, and your partner should also be treated. Accessed Feb. 9, 2022. This can happen if you have sex without a condom with a person who has trich. To lower your risk of getting trichomoniasis, its also very important to use a condom whenever you have sex, especially when its a new partner. It exerts some estrogenic effects on the body as it contains phytoestrogen compounds, and can be used for treatment or delay of menopause in women. See also How Can You Get Trichomoniasis if No One Cheats? Tell your sex partners that you have trichomoniasis. This disease is more common at the period of greatest sexual activity. You can get this test by buying any of its STD test kits that test for trichomoniasis, including Basic 3, Standard 5, and Complete 8. (2020). Sexually transmitted infections like syphilis are very common and easily detectable through a blood test. When you test positive for trichomoniasis, its important to follow up with treatment especially since trich increases your risk of getting other STIs. You can add this content to your website by syndicating. Heres what you need to know to take charge of your health in the minutes, weeks, and months after condomless sex. WebIf you dont treat it, chlamydia can cause pelvic inflammatory disease and ectopic pregnancies in women. If you do test positive for trichomoniasis, you might also be tested for chlamydia or gonorrhea. In men, the infection is most commonly found inside the penis (urethra). To learn how to use How to Get Trichomoniasis if No One Cheats, visit Cheats.is. Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code or city or state. If you are sexually active, you can do the following things to lower your chances of getting trich: Also, talk about the potential risk of STDs beforehaving sex with a new partner. It is a common STD that spreads through sexual contact, including oral sex. Your health care provider will typically retest you for trichomoniasis after treatment. The signs of trich can be barely noticeable, or really painful and irritating. Mayo Clinic. You can view the codes and cheats working and click the button to download You should receive testing again about three months after your treatment, even if your sex partner(s) received treatment. https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/trichomoniasis. Your doctor or nurse will take a swab of your urethra to get a sample of cells. At-Home Trichomoniasis Tests: Are They Right for You? Can you get trichomoniasis if no one cheats? My partner contracted trichomoniasis: Did they freaking cheat?! https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/trichomoniasis. Although the most common transmission mechanism of this disease is through unprotected vaginal intercourse, someone can have a latent, asymptomatic infection for many months and pass it on to a new partner without realizing it. People can have trichomoniasis for months without showing any symptoms. Bacterial vaginosis isnt an STI, and recurring cases may have nothing to do with having the same or new sexual partner. Workowski, KA, Bachmann, LH, Chang, PA, et. Although most cases are treated with a single dose, your doctor could recommend a lower dose that should be taken twice a day for seven straight days. A trichomoniasis infection can be dangerous for a pregnant woman. Your family doctor, gynecologist or a medical practitioner at an urgent care center can diagnose and prescribe treatment for trichomoniasis. This can help inform the choices you are comfortable taking with your sex life. vaginal discharge, which can be yellow or Additionally, use mango ice cream for more rich mango milkshake. Trichomoniasis is never truly dormant. You can spread trich to other people whether or not you have symptoms, so its important to get tested if you think you might have trich. 1-800-994-9662 They often fall under the BDSM category, but not always. How do people get trichomoniasis? The parasite passes from an infected person to an uninfected person during sex. In women, the most commonly infected part of the body is the lower genital tract (vulva, vagina, cervix, or urethra). In men, the most commonly infected body part is the inside of the penis (urethra). If you or your partner suddenly have symptoms or test positive for it, it doesnt necessarily mean that someones cheating. 1998-2023 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). Trichomoniasis can be treated with antibiotics. Your information is private and anonymous. Office on Women's Health. Trichomoniasis isn't spread through casual contact, so you can't get it from sharing food or drinks, kissing, hugging, holding hands, coughing, sneezing, or sitting on toilet seats. If you or your partner start experiencing trich symptoms, you both need to get tested for STIs. People can have trichomoniasis for months without showing any symptoms. Looking to level up your sex life? Typical symptoms include painful or frequent urination, abnormal discharge, irregular periods, and fatigue. Your health care provider may also look at a sample of Do not have sex until you and your sex partner(s) finish taking all of the antibiotics and have no symptoms. It's quite another to learn you have an STI while you're in a monogamous relationship. OWH and the OWH helpline do not see patients and are unable to: diagnose your medical condition; provide treatment; prescribe medication; or refer you to specialists. Either partner may have gotten it in a previous relationship and unknowingly passed it on. Its advised to finish your entire antibiotic prescription even if symptoms disappear. Your health care provider may diagnose trichomoniasis by doing an exam of the genitals and lab tests. Schumann JA, et al. Trichomoniasis. It was always believed to be a sexually transmitted disease. While its tempting to jump to conclusions, try have an open, honest conversation with your partner about their sexual activity. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. So before you go dumping their prized possessions on the front lawn, here are the deets. how it spreads. Even without symptoms, it can be passed to others. So, how can you get trichomoniasis is no one cheats in a relationship? We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information. According to the NHS, symptoms of trichomoniasis in men can include: Pain during urination or ejaculation Increased urinary frequency and urgency Thin, milky white penile discharge Soreness, swelling, and pain on the foreskin or around the head of the penis Testicular pain (less common) Lower abdominal pain (less common) Drinking alcohol during and for a few days after treatment can cause severe nausea and vomiting. Here are 20 ways to feel more comfortable and confident in bed. To lower your risk, use internal or external condoms correctly every time you have sex. The easiest way to lookup drug information, identify pills, check interactions and set up your own personal medication records. Here's how to boost their efficacy. information submitted for this request. High incidence of new sexually transmitted infections in the year following a sexually transmitted infection: a case for rescreening. Pregnant people with trich are more likely to have their babies early. If you or your partner suddenly have symptoms or test positive for it, it doesnt necessarily mean that someones cheating. i hope that there are still studies being conducted regarding transmission, contraction, and treatment as well as where it can live and for how long. People with trich can pass the infection to others, even if they do not have symptoms. Accessed Feb. 10, 2022. Between our trained sexual health educators or chat bot, we can answer your questions about your sexual health whenever you have them. The only way to get rid of trichomoniasis is to get treated with medicine. In women, trichomoniasis can cause a foul-smelling vaginal discharge, genital itching and painful urination. https://www.healthline.com/health/how-can-you-get-trichomoniasis-if-no-one-cheats Kadie80 Aug 20, 2022 at 10:07 PM Get a retest could be a mistake. Your partner could also be asymptomatic and unknowingly pass the infection to you from a previous relationship. in very rare cases, it can spread through sharing personal items, such as. trich is caused by a really tiny parasite called a trichomona (you can't see it with the naked eye) . This content does not have an Arabic version. You should not have sex again until you and your sex partner(s) complete treatment. After youve contracted trich, symptoms can start to show their ugly faces anywhere between 5 and 28 days. Test for Trichomoniasis in a Lab Near You. Trich is an STI caused by a tiny (like, super tinyyou can't see it with the naked eye) parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. Swelling around your genitals. The parasite infects the lower genital tract. Trichomoniasis (or trich) is a very common STD caused by infection with Trichomonas vaginalis (a protozoan parasite). how can you care for yourself at home. Many people with trich dont have any symptoms, but they can still spread the infection to others. so, how can you get trichomoniasis is no one cheats in a relationship? While trichomoniasis is usually passed sexually, it may be picked up from contact with damp or moist objects such as towels, wet clothing, or a toilet seat, if the genital area gets in contact with these damp or moist objects. WebIf you have trichomoniasis, you are more likely to contract HIV if you are exposedso getting tested and treated is important. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Then theyll examine the cells using a microscope to make a diagnosis. Without treatment, the infection can last for months or even years. Symptoms of vaginitis caused by trich include: Green, yellow, gray, frothy, and/or bad-smelling vaginal discharge. Back to Sexually Transmitted Infections (STDs), Who We Are: Americas Most Trusted Name in Sexual Health. Sometimes the symptoms of trich are so mild that you dont even notice them, or you think its a different infection (like a yeast infection or a UTI). 2023 Planned Parenthood Federation of America Inc. We couldn't access your location, please search for a location. Vaginal, oral, or anal sex. According to the CDC, trichomoniasis is the most common curable STI in the United States. Trichomoniasis symptoms. And they are free and confidential. When men do have signs and symptoms, however, they might include: See your health care provider if you have any symptoms of trichomoniasis or if you become aware that a sexual partner has the infection.