Brooke Miller by Brooke Miller

Trichomoniasis:

bemiller01_ — 2023-11-26 05:48:45 UTC

A sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite.

Trichomoniasis is among the most common sexually transmitted infections. Risk factors include multiple sexual partners and not using condoms during sex.

Trichomoniasis causes a foul-smelling vaginal discharge, genital itching, and painful urination in women. Men typically have no symptoms. Complications include a risk of premature delivery for pregnant women.

Treatment involves both partners taking one large dose of a certain oral antibiotic.

bemiller01_ — 2023-11-26 05:53:32 UTC

Trichomoniasis (or “trich”) is a very common STD caused by infection with Trichomonas vaginalis (a protozoan parasite).

Symptoms of Trichomoniasis

bemiller01_ — 2023-11-26 06:04:23 UTC

In men, the symptoms of this parasite include itching and irritation inside the penis, burning after peeing or ejaculating, and discharge from the penis. In women, the symptoms include itching, burning, and soreness of the genitals, discomfort when peeing, and a clear, white, yellowish, and greenish discharge. Without being treated for this parasite, the infection to one’s genitals can last for months or even years. In having trichomoniasis, it is also easier to contract HIV, which without treatment, can lead to AIDs.

What are the effects of Trichomoniasis on Newborns and Pregnancy

bemiller01_ — 2023-11-26 06:09:57 UTC

If a trichomoniasis infection is left untreated during pregnancy, it can increase a woman’s chances of pre-term delivery and low birth weight. Both of these can affect the baby’s development, overall health, and time spent in the hospital after birth.

There is also a chance that the infection could be transmitted to the baby during vaginal birth. This is very rare, however the infant will be treated with antibiotics to clear the infection.

bemiller01_ — 2023-11-26 06:14:13 UTC

New research has found a correlation between infected males and increased risk of prostate cancer. In women, trich has been found to increase the risk of HIV infection, AIDS, and cervical cancer.

What is the long-term prognosis for someone who has Trichomoniasis?

bemiller01_ — 2023-11-26 06:17:38 UTC

It is essential to seek treatment if you have been diagnosed with Trichomoniasis. Once cured, most patients can move on with their lives with no long-term complications.

If left untreated, long-term complications such as the listed below can occur.

Genital and urethral inflammation risk of contracting other STIs and viruses such as HIV, Herpes, and HPV.
Pelvic inflammatory disease in women.
Acute and chronic prostatitis in men
Increased cervical or prostate cancer risk, especially if co-infected with HPV.
Infertility.

Treatment for Trichomoniasis can fail. However, this is only seen in 5-15% of patients.

Prevention of Trichomoniasis

bemiller01_ — 2023-11-26 06:21:08 UTC

Transmission can be avoided by the following measures:

Using a condom during sexual intercourse.
Getting tested before engaging in sexual contact with any new partners.
Avoiding sexual intercourse with all partners until the entire course of their treatment is completed and the symptoms are gone.

Interesting Facts about Trichomoniasis

bemiller01_ — 2023-11-26 06:26:24 UTC

Trichomoniasis is the most common curable STD
About 70% of infected people do not have any signs or symptoms
In the United States, an estimated 3.7 million people have the infection. However, only about 30% develop any symptoms of trichomoniasis.
Infection is more common in women than in men.
Infection is more common in women than in men.
Older women are more likely than younger women to have been infected with trichomoniasis.
Some people with symptoms get them within 5 to 28 days after being infected. Others do not develop symptoms until much later. Symptoms can come and go.

Treatment options of Trichomoniasis include:

bemiller01_ — 2023-11-26 06:27:54 UTC

Trichomoniasis is usually treated quickly and easily with antibiotics. Most people are prescribed an antibiotic called metronidazole, which is very effective if taken correctly. You'll usually have to take metronidazole twice a day, for 5 to 7 days.

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