Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region & Southwest Missouri is not only dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable and accessible sexual and reproductive health care. We are also committed to advancing health care innovation and improving services for our patients. To do that, our research team is currently conducting a clinical research study using a new investigational test for detection of Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) and Mycoplasma genitalium (MG).
What is TV?
Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) is a parasite that causes a very common STI called trichomoniasis (or trich). Anyone can have trich, although most people do not show symptoms. If there are symptoms, the most common ones include discolored and/or bad-smelling vaginal discharge, pain during sex, itching, irritation and/or swelling around the genitals. Symptoms may come and go, but that doesn’t mean the infection is gone. Treatment is the only way to get rid of trich. Even if there are no symptoms, trich can still be spread through unprotected sex.
What is MG?
Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) is a bacteria that causes a little-known STI by the same name. Like trich, anyone can have it and most people who do have it don’t have symptoms. When there are symptoms, they are very similar to other conditions, such as bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection. With or without symptoms, MG can lead to other health issues such as urethritis, cervicitis and pelvic inflammatory disease. Even if there are no symptoms, MG can still be spread through unprotected sex.
How to Participate
If you are a sexually active male or female, age 18 or older, you may qualify for this STI screening study at no cost to you at our Central West End or North County Health Center. Your participation is voluntary.
Participants who qualify may receive:
- Compensation of up to $50 for females and $25 for males (paid on same day)
- One visit conducted by a Board-Certified Gynecologist or Certified nurse practitioner
Your participation is voluntary and you do not need to participate in the study to receive STI testing or any other health care services. To learn more, call (314) 531-7526, ext. 362 or email [email protected] today.
Tags: STItesting, healthcareinnovation, stdtesting, research