What is Trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis (or trichomoniasis) is a widespread sexually transmitted disease (STD). It occurs due to infection with a protozoan called Trichomonas vaginalis. Since the symptoms of trichomoniasis vary, most people who are infected cannot independently determine whether they have the disease.
How common is trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis is the most common curable sexually transmitted disease. According to experts, the number of infected people in the United States is 3.7 million. However, only about 30% of those affected have symptoms of this disease. The infection is more common in women than in men. Older women suffer from it more often than younger women.
How can you get trichomoniasis?
During sex, microorganisms are passed from an infected person to a healthy person. In women, the lower genitals (vulva, vagina, cervix, or urethra) are most commonly affected. In men, the inside of the penis (urethra). During sex, microorganisms are transferred from the penis to the vagina or from the vagina to the penis. They can also pass from one vagina to another. Microorganisms can also infect other parts of the body, such as the hands, mouth, or anus. It is not yet known why some infected people develop symptoms of trichomoniasis while others do not. It probably depends on the age and general health of the person. Even in the absence of symptoms, a carrier of the disease can pass it on to others.
What are the signs and symptoms of trichomoniasis?
About 70% of infected people show no signs or symptoms of the disease. When symptoms occur, symptoms can range from mild irritation to severe inflammation. Some people develop symptoms 5–28 days after infection. Others develop symptoms much later. Symptoms may come and go.
Symptoms of the disease in men:
- itching or irritation inside the penis;
- burning after urination or ejaculation;
- discharge from the penis.
Symptoms of the disease in women:
- itching, burning, redness, or soreness of the genitals;
- discomfort when urinating;
- change in vaginal discharge (smell or quantity changes), they can become transparent, white, yellowish or greenish with an unusual fishy smell.
Having trichomoniasis can cause discomfort when having sex. Without treatment, the disease can last for months or even years.
What are the complications after trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis increases the risk of contracting other sexually transmitted infections. For example, trichomoniasis can cause inflammation of the genitals, making it easier to get HIV or transmit HIV to a sexual partner.
How does trichomoniasis affect a pregnant woman and an unborn child?
Pregnant women with trichomoniasis are more likely to have premature babies (premature births occur). In addition, children born to such mothers are more likely to have low birth weight (less than 2.5 kg).
How is trichomoniasis diagnosed?
Trichomoniasis cannot be diagnosed based on external symptoms alone. Therefore, contact a medical institution where you will be examined and laboratory tests performed.
How is trichomoniasis treated?
Special medications (metronidazole or tinidazole) are used to treat trichomoniasis. They come in pill form. These drugs are safe for pregnant women. After taking them, it is not recommended to consume alcohol for 24 hours.
A person who has recovered from trichomoniasis may get it again. About one in five people who recovered will become infected again within 3 months after the end of treatment. To avoid re-infection, you need to make sure that all sex partners are treated. In addition, you must wait 7-10 days after the end of treatment and only then have sex again. If symptoms reappear, it is necessary to retest.
How can I prevent getting trichomoniasis?
The only way to avoid STDs is not to have vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
If you are sexually active, to reduce the likelihood of contracting trichomoniasis:
- Maintain a long-term, mutual monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and tested negative for STDs.
- use latex condoms correctly every time you have sex. This can reduce the likelihood of infection. However, microorganisms can enter areas that are not covered by a condom, so condoms cannot completely protect you from trichomoniasis.
You can also talk with your new sex partner beforehand about the potential risk of an STD. And based on the results of this conversation, make an informed decision, taking into account the risks that you are ready to take in your sex life.
If you or someone you know has questions about trichomoniasis or any other STD, see your doctor.
