Can You Contract Trichomoniasis from Protected Sex? Expert Insights

Can this type of sexual activity transmit trichomoniasis?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask about an incident in early November where I had unprotected sexual intercourse.
I wore a condom throughout the entire act, and after ejaculation, I immediately rinsed my groin with water.
Then, I quickly removed the condom and rinsed it again.
Later, the woman mentioned that she has a trichomoniasis infection.
Am I at risk of contracting trichomoniasis from this encounter? If there is a possibility of HPV (genital warts), would I be at risk as well? I'm quite worried.

2.
After that, my wife performed oral sex on me and we also had intercourse (with a condom).
Is there a possibility that she could contract trichomoniasis or other STDs like HPV from this?
3.
Since then, I have occasionally felt a tingling sensation on the left side of the base of my penis near the scrotum, but it is not very frequent.
Could this be a symptom of an STD?

Jun, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/23

Dr. Li Yilun reply Urology

Genital warts, commonly referred to as condylomata acuminata, are a sexually transmitted infection that cannot heal on its own.
Symptoms in men are usually easily identifiable by their appearance.
If your current symptoms are not obvious, reducing high-risk sexual behaviors can help decrease the chances of infection.
The more sexual partners one has, the greater the risk of transmitting sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Limiting sexual activity with multiple partners can reduce the pathways to infection.
Additionally, minimizing fluid contact can lower the risk of contracting the disease, and prevention is better than treatment.

Reply Date: 2015/11/23

More Info

When it comes to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like trichomoniasis, understanding the risks associated with protected sex is crucial. Let's break down your questions and concerns regarding potential exposure to trichomoniasis and other STIs.

1. Can you contract trichomoniasis from protected sex?
Trichomoniasis is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. While using a condom significantly reduces the risk of many STIs, it is important to note that trichomoniasis can still be transmitted if there is skin-to-skin contact in areas not covered by the condom. If the female partner has trichomoniasis and there was any contact with infected fluids or skin, there is still a possibility of transmission, albeit lower than without a condom. Since you mentioned that you used a condom throughout the encounter and rinsed afterward, your risk of contracting trichomoniasis is reduced, but not entirely eliminated.

2. What about exposure to HPV (human papillomavirus)?
The same principle applies to HPV, which can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. Condoms do not cover all genital areas, so while they provide a level of protection, they do not completely eliminate the risk of HPV transmission. If your partner has HPV and there was any contact with areas not covered by the condom, there is a risk of transmission.

3. Regarding your wife's oral sex and potential transmission of trichomoniasis or HPV:
If your wife performed oral sex on you while you were wearing a condom, the risk of her contracting trichomoniasis from you is very low, assuming you did not have any exposure to the infection. However, if you were infected, there is a potential risk for her. As for HPV, oral sex can transmit the virus, so if you were infected, there is a possibility she could contract it through oral contact.

4. Symptoms you are experiencing:
The sensation you describe near the base of your penis and scrotum could be due to various reasons, including irritation, anxiety, or even a mild infection. It is important to note that many STIs can be asymptomatic, meaning you may not show symptoms even if you are infected. If you are concerned about the symptoms you are experiencing, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and possibly testing for STIs.

In summary, while using condoms significantly reduces the risk of contracting STIs, it does not eliminate the risk entirely, especially for infections like trichomoniasis and HPV that can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. If you have concerns about potential exposure or symptoms, seeking medical advice and getting tested is the best course of action. Regular STI screenings are also a good practice, especially if you have multiple partners or engage in high-risk sexual behaviors.

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