# Can you get trichomoniasis again after treatment? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/can-you-get-trichomoniasis-again-after-treatment Language: en Category: infectious Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:53.252Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:53.252Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/can-you-get-trichomoniasis-again-after-treatment Yes, it is possible to get trichomoniasis again after successfully completing treatment. This sexually transmitted infection (STI) is common, and even after receiving antibiotic treatment, the risk of reinfection remains. Estimates suggest that about 1 in 5 people become reinfected within three months of finishing the initial treatment [\[2\]](). Reinfection most often occurs due to having sex with a partner who was not treated at the same time, or with a new partner who is infected [\[2\]](). Therefore, it is essential that all sexual partners receive treatment at the same time to avoid mutual transmission (the "ping-pong effect") [\[2\]](). ## Reasons for Recurrent Infection There are several reasons that may lead to the recurrence of trichomoniasis after treatment, the most prominent being the failure to treat the sexual partner or partners. If one partner is infected and does not receive treatment, they will remain capable of transmitting the parasite that causes the infection, which leads to the reinfection of the person who was treated [\[2\]](). It is also important to abstain from sex until all partners have fully completed treatment [\[2\]](). Additionally, reinfection may occur if a person is exposed to a new infection from a different partner who has trichomoniasis. The parasite causing the disease, *Trichomonas vaginalis*, is primarily transmitted through sexual contact [\[2\]](). ## The Importance of Treating Sexual Partners To ensure the effectiveness of treatment and prevent the recurrence of trichomoniasis, all sexual partners of the infected person must receive treatment at the same time, even if they do not show any symptoms [\[2\]](). Many people with trichomoniasis do not exhibit any symptoms, especially men [\[1\]](), making them potential carriers of the infection without their knowledge. Not treating partners significantly increases the risk of reinfection [\[2\]](). ## Steps to Prevent Reinfection To reduce the risk of recurring trichomoniasis, it is recommended to follow these guidelines: - **Complete the treatment:** The infected person and all their sexual partners must complete the full prescribed course of antibiotics [\[2\]](). - **Abstain from sex:** Avoid having sex until all partners have completed treatment and any symptoms have resolved [\[2\]](). - **Follow-up testing:** It is recommended to have a follow-up test about three months after finishing treatment, even if partners have also received treatment [\[2\]](). This helps ensure complete recovery and the absence of a latent infection. - **Use condoms:** Correct and consistent condom use significantly reduces the risk of contracting or spreading trichomoniasis and other STIs, but it does not eliminate the risk entirely [\[1\]](). - **Open communication:** Talking openly with sexual partners about STI history and testing can help in making informed decisions about sexual health [\[2\]](). ## When to Consult a Doctor? If any symptoms of trichomoniasis appear again after treatment, such as unusual vaginal discharge, itching, or pain during urination or intercourse, a doctor should be consulted immediately [\[1\]](). These symptoms may indicate reinfection or another underlying infection. You can learn more about [trichomoniasis symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment]() (Arabic) by visiting our comprehensive article. ## Medical references - [Trichomoniasis]() - [About Trichomoniasis]() - [Trichomoniasis]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/can-you-get-trichomoniasis-again-after-treatment#answer