Trichomoniasis, commonly referred to as “trich,” is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Trich is widespread. Globally, more than 160-180 million people are affected by it each year.
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Most people don’t know they have it since it initially shows no symptoms. Approximately 70% of infected people have no symptoms. It affects both men and women, but symptoms tend to show up more clearly in women. The good news is that it’s preventable and treatable. Let’s get into it.
What Is Trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis is a widespread sexually transmitted infection. It is caused by a very small parasite (Trichomonas vaginalis). This parasite spreads through sexual contact. It can affect anybody, but it occurs more frequently in those who have multiple sex partners or do not use protection during sex.
Trichomoniasis is simple to treat with antibiotics. Metronidazole, tinidazole, and secnidazole are most commonly used. It is crucial for both partners to be treated at once to prevent it from coming back.
How Is Trich Transmitted?
Trich is most commonly transmitted through vaginal sex. Transmission through oral or anal sex is extremely rare and not well documented. It is also spread through sharing unwashed sex toys. Trich is not spread through kissing, hugging, toilet seats, or food and drinks.
The parasite lives in the genital and urinary areas. In women, it usually infects the vagina and even the urethra. In men, it mainly infects the urethra and sometimes the head of the penis or prostate.
Who’s Most at Risk?
You are likely to catch trich if you have:
- Sex without wearing a condom
- Several different sexual partners
- Had trich in your past.
- Had STIs before
Common Symptoms in Women vs Men
Trichomoniasis does not always cause symptoms. But if symptoms do appear, those for men and women are often quite different.
In Women, Symptoms May Include:
- A pungent-smelling discharge out
- Burning, itching, or redness around the vagina
- Discharge that can be clear, white, grey, yellow, or green
- Painful intercourse or during urination
- Discomfort in the lower belly
In Men, Symptoms Are Rare But Can Include:
- Itching or irritation within the penis
- Redness or swelling at or around the penis head
- Need to urinate more frequently
- A feeling of burning during urination or following ejaculation
- A white, thin discharge from the penis
How Do You Know If You Have Trichomoniasis?
The only certain way is to be tested. It is possible for doctors to test for trich with a swab or urine test. It’s a quick and easy test. If the test is positive, it’s simple to treat. A course of antibiotics will clear out the infection within a few days.
How Is Trichomoniasis Diagnosed?
It’s challenging to detect trichomoniasis. The reason is that its symptoms resemble those of other infections—or sometimes there are no symptoms at all.
If you believe you have got trich, you can see a General Physician or a sexual health (GUM) clinic. GUM clinics have better tests and results are typically quicker. When you see your doctor, you will be asked questions about your symptoms. They will possibly do a brief examination of your private parts.
- For women: They may observe unusual discharge or redness within the vagina.
- For men: They will inspect for swelling or discharge of the penis.
Next is the test. A small swab may be taken from the vagina. Or a swab from the penis. Men may occasionally be requested to provide a urine sample as well. The samples are sent to a laboratory to test for the parasite.
Occasionally, if strongly suspected, the physician will begin therapy before receiving results. This will prevent infection spread.
Testing and Disclosure to Partners
If you test positive, it’s crucial that your partner is tested and get treatment as well. The clinic will be able to advise you about who needs to be notified. If you do not feel you can tell them yourself, the clinic will be happy to do this for you.
After you’re treated and cured, you don’t have to inform future sex partners you have had previous infections — except if you’re still concerned.
Best Treatment Options
Trichomoniasis will not clear up by itself. You may be prescribed an antibiotic, especially metronidazole. It’s typically provided as tablets to be taken for 5 to 7 days.
It’s essential to finish the entire course of antibiotics and avoid sexual activity until the infection has fully cleared to prevent reinfection.
Metronidazole is effective, but it is not without adverse effects. You may feel sick, have a metallic taste, or be sick indeed. Taking it after food can help with that.
Another choice that can be employed is Arilin Rapid (also referred to as metronidazole pessaries). They are typically for females and need to be put into the vagina.
What if It’s Left Untreated
If you do not treat trichomoniasis, an infection can last for months — or even years. Untreated trich in women can result in:
- Pelvic infections
- Pregnancy issues such as premature birth or low birth weight
- Increased risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV
In men, it may sometimes lead to:
- Prostate conditions
- Fertility issues
How to Prevent Trichomoniasis
You can best protect yourself by practicing safe sex. Here’s how to minimize your risk:
- Use condoms for all sex, both vaginal and anal
- If you are a woman and have sex with a woman, you should use a dam as well
- Don’t share sex toys. If you do, clean them thoroughly or use a new condom for every use.
- Use a condom or a dental dam (thin square to cover the area) for oral sex.
In addition, have STI tests as regularly as you can, especially if you have a new partner or have several partners.
Trich is widespread, but it is treatable. At Transtoyou, with an online appointment, you can be treated quickly and anonymously. No need to travel to a clinic if you don’t wish to.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is intended for informational purposes and not as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified healthcare provider for specific questions about your health.
