Parasites are organisms that live off or in other organisms. Human parasites are often harmful to the body and can cause diseases.
How it is spread:
Through unprotected oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
Symptoms:
- Unusual discharge from vagina or penis
- Itchiness
- Burning sensation when peeing
- Painful sex (females)
OR
No symptoms
Test:
Swab
Treatment:
Can cure with medication
Risks if no treatment:
- Chronic pain
- Infertility (no babies)
- Increases your risk to get other STIs if exposed to them
Prevention:
- Use a condom and/or dental dam every time you have oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
- Get tested at your local health centre.
How it is spread:
Close contact with infected person.
Symptoms:
- Itchy skin
Test:
Visual test or swab
Treatment:
Can cure with special lotion.
Wash other infected items (clothes, bedding, towels) in hot water, or keep in sealed bag for 1 week.
Risks if no treatment:
- Constant scratching can cause infections
Prevention:
Do not share unwashed towels and clothing.
How it is spread:
Close contact with an infected person.
Symptoms:
- Itchy and red skin
- Tiny oval-shaped eggs in pubic hair
- Tiny black dots on underwear (lice poop)
Test:
Visual test
Treatment:
Can cure with special shampoo.
Use a fine comb to scrape eggs out of hair.
Wash other infected items (clothes, bedding, towels) in hot water, or keep in sealed bag for one week.
Risks if no treatment:
- Constant scratching can cause infections.
Prevention:
Do not share unwashed towels and clothing