Birth Control and Disease Prevention

Trichomoniasis Symptoms: Women: -Discomfort from intercourse -Itching of the inner thighs -Vaginal discharge (thin, greenish-yellow, frothy or foamy) -Vaginal itching -Vulvar itching or swelling of the labia -Vaginal odor (foul or strong smell) Men: -Burning after urination or ejaculation -Itching of urethra -Slight discharge from urethra Trichomoniasis is transmitted through sexual intercourse. Most cases are seen in women around the age of 16-25. The parasite cannot survive in the mouth or rectum. We can prevent it with abstinence.

Gonorrhea Gonorrhea is caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Gonorrhea is also known as “the clap” or “the drip.” It can be transmitted sexually through the vagina, penis, mouth, or anus. This bacteria can be prevented by using condoms and Practicing monogamy or abstinence. Symptoms: Symptoms in men include: Burning and pain while urinating Increased urinary frequency or urgency Discharge from the penis (white, yellow, or green in color) Red or swollen opening of penis (urethra) Tender or swollen testicles Sore throat (gonococcal pharyngitis) Symptoms in women can be very mild or nonspecific, and may be mistaken for another type of infection. They include: Vaginal discharge Increased urination Sore throat Painful sexual intercourse Severe pain in lower abdomen (if the infection spreads to the fallopian tubes and stomach area) Fever (if the infection spreads to the fallopian tubes and stomach area) If the infection spreads to the bloodstream, fever, rash, and arthritis-like symptoms may occur.

Spermicide Spermicide is a lubricant that is put into the vagina to “kill” the sperm. It is a type of birth control that is not always the most sure way to prevent pregnancy. Spermicide blocks the cervix and keeps the sperm from moving so they can not join with an egg.