Trichomoniasis
On this page, you will find everything you need to know about trichomoniasis.
What is Trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis is an infection caused by a small parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. It usually spreads during sexual intercourse.
What are the symptoms of Trichomoniasis?
Many people with trichomoniasis do not show any symptoms.
- Symptoms in women:
- Frothy or foul-smelling vaginal discharge that may be yellow, gray, or green.
- Itching or burning in the vagina.
- Lower abdominal pain.
Pain during intercourse or urination.
Symptoms in men:
- Men with Trichomoniasis usually do not show symptoms, but some may experience:
- Discharge from the penis.
- Pain during urination or ejaculation.
- The need to urinate more frequently than usual.
Soreness, swelling, and redness around the tip of the penis.
- What are the causes of Trichomoniasis?
- It usually spreadsduring sexual intercourse.
It can also be transmitted by sharing damp towels or washcloths.
What are the diagnostic methods?:
- The doctor will take a medical historyand perform a clinical examination, and mayrequest additional procedures as necessary, such as:
- For women: A sample from inside the vagina to test for trichomoniasis.
- For men: A urine testor swab from theopening of the penis.STIs).
If a person is infected, the doctor may also request tests for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
What are the treatment methods for Trichomoniasis?
- Treatment involves several measuresor as required,which may include:
- Medications: Antibiotics. Most people need just a single large dose, but some may require a longer treatment duration.
Avoiding sexual intercourse until the infection has cleared to prevent reinfection.
- What are the prevention methods for Trichomoniasis?
- The best way to avoid Trichomoniasis is to use a condom every time you have sex.
- To prevent reinfection with trichomoniasis, ensure that the patient’s partner is also treated.
It is advisable to avoid sexual intercourse for seven days after treatment.
What arethe complicationsof Trichomoniasis?
If left untreated, the disease can persist for months or even years. If the infection occurs in a woman during pregnancy, it may lead to premature birth or low birth weight.
Trichomoniasis also increases the likelihood of contracting other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
When should you see a doctor?
Visit a doctor if you show any symptoms of Trichomoniasis or believe you might be infected.
Frequently Asked Questions
My doctor has diagnosed me with trichomoniasis. Should I inform my partner about my infection?
Yes, so they can receive appropriate treatment, even if they do not show any symptoms. A large number of them do not exhibit signs of the disease, which will help prevent future transmission.
I have a vaginal discharge. Does this mean I have a sexually transmitted disease?
No, not all vaginal discharges are considered a sexually transmitted disease. Some are non-pathological, such as discharge associated with pregnancy or intercourse. There are also other non-sexual conditions caused by increased vaginal bacterial activity.
I have a penile discharge. Does this mean I have a sexually transmitted disease?
Most likely, yes. Discharge from the male organ is often a sexual infection like gonorrhea. In such cases, a doctor’s consultation is necessary to take a sample of the discharge to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
I used a public restroom. Is it possible to contract the disease from using public toilets?
