What are the symptoms of trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. Symptoms of trichomoniasis vary, and some people infected with the parasite may not experience any symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they can include:

1. Genital itching: Itching or irritation in the genital area, which may be mild to severe.
2. Vaginal discharge: Women with trichomoniasis may experience a frothy, yellow-green vaginal discharge with a strong odor. Men with trichomoniasis may have a thin, white discharge from the penis.
3. Painful urination: Some people with trichomoniasis may experience pain or discomfort when urinating.
4. Genital redness or swelling: The genital area may appear red, swollen, or inflamed.
5. Discomfort during sex: Trichomoniasis can cause discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse.
6. Lower abdominal pain: Women with trichomoniasis may experience lower abdominal pain or discomfort.

It’s important to note that trichomoniasis can increase the risk of other STIs, including HIV, so it’s important to seek testing and treatment if you suspect you may be infected. Trichomoniasis can be treated with prescription antibiotics. If you suspect you have trichomoniasis or any other STI, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider promptly for testing, diagnosis, and treatment.

What are the causes of trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is caused by infection with the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. The parasite is usually transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person. This can occur during vaginal intercourse, but it can also occur during other types of sexual activity, such as oral sex or mutual masturbation.

Trichomoniasis is more common in women than in men, and women are more likely to experience symptoms of infection. However, men can also be infected and can transmit the infection to their sexual partners.

In addition to sexual contact, trichomoniasis can also be transmitted through sharing damp or moist towels, washcloths, or other items that have come into contact with an infected person’s genital area. However, this is less common than sexual transmission.

It’s important to note that trichomoniasis is not transmitted through casual contact, such as sharing food or drink, or through contact with toilet seats or swimming pools. The best way to prevent trichomoniasis is to practice safe sex, including using condoms consistently and correctly during sexual activity.

What is the treatment for trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is typically treated with prescription antibiotics, most commonly metronidazole or tinidazole. These medications are taken orally in a single dose or as a course of treatment over several days. It’s important to take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to ensure that the infection is fully treated.

It’s also important to abstain from sexual activity until the infection is fully treated and to inform sexual partners so that they can be tested and treated if necessary. It’s possible to be reinfected with trichomoniasis if exposed to the parasite again, so practicing safe sex, including using condoms consistently and correctly, can help prevent reinfection.

In addition to antibiotic treatment, it’s important to avoid alcohol while taking metronidazole or tinidazole, as these medications can cause a severe reaction when combined with alcohol. It’s also important to avoid sexual contact until both you and your partner have completed treatment and any symptoms have resolved. Regular follow-up testing may be recommended to ensure that the infection has been fully treated.