General Health Tips & News


Trichomoniasis


By H.S. (staff writer) , published on December 04, 2021



Medicine Telehealth Health


Trichomoniasis (or "trich") is an extremely prevalent sexually transmitted infection (STD). It is caused by infection with Trichomonas vaginalis, a protozoan parasite. Although symptoms vary, the majority of persons infected with the parasite are unaware they are afflicted.

 

How widespread is trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is the most often encountered treatable STD. The CDC predicts that there were more than two million trichomoniasis infections in the United States in 2018. However, only approximately 30% develop any trichomoniasis symptoms. Women are more prone to infection than males. Older women are more likely to have been afflicted with trichomoniasis than younger ones.

 

How are individuals infected with trichomoniasis?

During intercourse, the parasite spreads from an infected person to an uninfected one. The lower vaginal tract is the most often diseased area of the female body (vulva, vagina, cervix, or urethra).

The most often infected body component in males is the inside of the penis (urethra). Typically, the parasite transmits from a penis to a vagina or from a vagina to a penis during intercourse. Additionally, it may transfer from one vagina to another. The parasite seldom infects other bodily parts, such as the hands, mouth, or anus. Why some persons with the illness develop symptoms while others do not is unknown. It's likely to rely on a person's age and general health. Without symptoms, infected individuals might still transmit the virus to others.

 

How can you know if you have trichomoniasis?

Around 70% of infected individuals exhibit no signs or symptoms. Trichomoniasis may produce a variety of symptoms, ranging from moderate discomfort to severe inflammation. Some patients develop symptoms between 5 and 28 days following infection. Others do not exhibit symptoms until a long period of time has passed. Symptoms might appear and go.

 

What consequences may arise from trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis increases the risk of acquiring and transmitting other sexually transmitted illnesses. For instance, trichomoniasis may induce vaginal irritation, making it easier to get HIV or transmit the infection to a sexual partner.

 

What effect does trichomoniasis have on a pregnant lady and her unborn child?

Pregnant women who have trichomoniasis are more likely to birth prematurely (preterm delivery). Additionally, infants delivered to infected moms have a greater likelihood of having a low birth weight (less than 5.5 pounds).

Trichomoniasis cannot be diagnosed only based on symptoms. Your health care provider may evaluate you and order a laboratory test to identify trichomoniasis in both men and women.

 

How is trichomoniasis treated?

Trichomoniasis is treatable with doctor-prescribed Treatment. These tablets are swallowed. Pregnant women are safe to use this drug.

Individuals who have previously been treated for trichomoniasis are susceptible to re-infection, within three months of starting therapy, around 1 in 5 people re-infect. To prevent reinfection, all sex partners should get antibiotics concurrently. Reintroduce sex when everyone has been treated, and any symptoms have subsided (usually about a week). Consult a physician after three months to ensure you have not been infected again or sooner if your symptoms return.

 

What can be done to avoid trichomoniasis?

To prevent STDs, the only solution is to abstain from vaginal, anal, or oral intercourse.

If you are sexually active, the following steps may help reduce your risk of contracting trichomoniasis:

  • Maintain a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and has negative STD test results;
  • Always use latex condoms properly. This may help reduce your risk of contracting trichomoniasis.
  • Another option is to discuss the danger of STDs with a new partner before having sex. This way, you can make an educated decision about the degree of risk you are willing to accept in your sexual life.

 

Consult a health care practitioner if you or someone you know has concerns about trichomoniasis or any other STD.

 

 


References

[1] Cole RA. Trichomoniasis. US Geological Survey; 1999.

[2] Lewis D. Trichomoniasis. Medicine. 2014;42:369–371.

[3] Rein MF. Trichomoniasis. Hunter’s tropical medicine and emerging infectious diseases. Elsevier; 2020. p. 731–733.

[4] Schwebke JR, Burgess D. Trichomoniasis. Clinical microbiology reviews. 2004;17:794–803.

 




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