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Trichomoniasis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Trichomoniasis, also known as trich, is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by a tiny parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. Anyone who is sexually active can get trich, but it affects women more than men, especially older women and African American women. Many people with trich don't experience symptoms, but if left untreated, it can increase the risk of getting or spreading other STDs, including HIV.
Causes of Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is spread through sexual contact with an infected person. It typically spreads through contact between a penis and a vagina, but women who have sex with women can also get trich through vaginal contact. The infection usually affects the vulva, vagina, cervix, or urethra in women and the urethra or prostate in men. It's rare for trich to affect other parts of the body, such as the hands, mouth, or anus.
Symptoms of Trichomoniasis
About 70% of people with trich don't have symptoms, and when symptoms do appear, they may not show up until days or weeks after infection. Symptoms can include:
Symptoms in Women
Vaginal fluid that smells bad and is greenish or yellowish
Genital itching, burning, redness, or soreness
Pain during urination or sex
Increased urination frequency
Bleeding after sex
Symptoms in Men
Itching or irritation inside the penis
A thin white discharge from the penis
Pain during urination or sex
Increased urination frequency
Diagnosing Trichomoniasis
Doctors can diagnose trich by examining a sample of urine or genital fluid under a microscope to identify the parasite. Sometimes, a culture test may be necessary, where the sample is stored for several days to allow the parasite to grow and become easier to detect. Sensitive tests called nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) can also detect signs of the parasite. Your doctor may also test for other STDs, as many people with trich also have gonorrhea or chlamydia.
Treating Trichomoniasis
Antibiotic medications like metronidazole (Flagyl, Noritate, Nuvessa) and tinidazole (Tindamax) are effective in treating trichomoniasis in most people. Your doctor will prescribe pills to be taken either in one large dose or in several smaller doses. It's important to take all of the medication as prescribed, even if symptoms improve before completing the course. Treatment will eliminate the parasite, but reinfection is possible. About 20% of people get trich again within 3 months of treatment. Sexual partners should also be treated, even if they don't have symptoms, and sexual activity should be avoided for 7 to 10 days after treatment. Your doctor may recommend a follow-up test before resuming sexual activity.
Complications of Untreated Trichomoniasis
If left untreated, trich can lead to other health problems, such as an increased risk of getting or spreading other STDs. For people with HIV, trich may make them more likely to spread the virus. Pregnant women with untreated trich may experience preterm labor and deliver babies with low birth weight, which can increase the risk of health or developmental problems. In rare cases, babies may contract trich while passing through the birth canal. Pregnant women can receive treatment for trich, so it's essential to discuss the best options with a healthcare provider.
Preventing Trichomoniasis
The only foolproof way to prevent trich is to abstain from vaginal sex. However, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of infection:
Always use latex condoms, putting them on before any contact with the vagina
Avoid douching, as it can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and increase the risk of STDs
Maintain a monogamous relationship with a partner who has tested negative for STDs
If monogamy isn't possible, consider limiting the number of sexual partners
Openly discuss sexual histories and potential risks with partners to make informed decisions about sexual health
For more information on trichomoniasis and other STDs, visit these reputable sources:
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