What it is: Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by a parasite. It develops in the vaginal area for women and in the urethra in men.

How you get it: Vaginal intercourse or intercourse between two women can result in trichomoniasis. Women can get the disease from infected partners of both sexes, while men generally receive it only from infected women.

Symptoms: While some may not come across any symptoms, many of those infected will experience signs of trichomoniasis within 5-28 days of being infected. Symptoms include discharge that is frothy and yellow-green in color. Those infected may also have pain during urination, and irritation and itching in the vaginal area.

Prevention: Latex condoms used during vaginal sex can prevent the spread of trichomoniasis.

Treatment: Trichomoniasis can be treated with medication. And the person infected should not have sex until the infection has been cured.

Long-term Implications: Without treatment, a woman infected with trichomoniasis is more likely to contract HIV if in contact with the virus. Trichomoniasis while pregnant can also result in early births and low birth weight.