Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis, often shortened to “trich,” is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a tiny parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. Anyone who’s sexually active can get it, but it’s more frequent in women than men, and particularly among African American women. The surprising thing about Trich is that most people with it don’t experience any symptoms at all. However, if left untreated, it can increase your risk of getting and spreading other STDs, including HIV.

How You Get Trich

Trich is spread through vaginal, oral, or anal sex with someone who has the infection. The parasite can travel from the penis to the vagina or between vulvas during sex between women. In men, the parasite infects the urethra (the tube that carries urine) and sometimes the prostate gland.

Symptoms of Trichomoniasis

Around 70% of individuals infected with trichomoniasis experience no symptoms. For those who do, symptoms may not manifest until days or weeks after contracting the infection.

Symptoms in Women:

• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge that may be greenish or yellowish
• Genital itching, burning, redness, or soreness
• Pain during urination or sexual intercourse
• Increased frequency of urination
• Post-coital bleeding

Symptoms in Men:

• Itching or irritation inside the penis
• Thin white discharge from the penis
• Pain during urination or sexual intercourse
• Increased frequency of urination

Diagnosis of Trichomoniasis

Doctors diagnose trichomoniasis by collecting a sample of urine or genital fluid and examining it under a microscope to detect the parasite. In some cases, a culture test may be necessary, where the sample is stored for several days to allow the parasite to grow, making it easier to identify under a microscope.

Alternatively, sensitive tests like nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) can detect signs of the parasite.

It’s common for doctors to also test for other STDs simultaneously since many individuals with trichomoniasis may also be infected with gonorrhea or chlamydia.

Treatment of Trichomoniasis

The primary treatment for trichomoniasis involves antibiotic medications such as metronidazole (Flagyl, Noritate, and Nuvessa) and tinidazole (Tindamax), which effectively eliminate the infection in most cases. Your doctor will prescribe oral pills for you to take, either in a single, large dose or divided into several smaller doses. It’s crucial to complete the entire course of medication, even if symptoms improve, before finishing the treatment.

Although treatment eradicates the parasite, there’s still a risk of reinfection. Approximately 20% of individuals experience a recurrence of trichomoniasis within three months after completing treatment.

It’s essential for your sexual partner(s) to undergo treatment as well, even if they don’t display any symptoms. Refrain from sexual activity for 7 to 10 days after completing treatment, and your doctor may recommend retesting before resuming sexual intercourse.

Complications of Trichomoniasis

Without prompt treatment, trichomoniasis can lead to various health complications.

• Increased risk of contracting or transmitting other STDs: Trichomoniasis raises the likelihood of acquiring or spreading other sexually transmitted diseases. In individuals with HIV, trichomoniasis may increase the chances of HIV transmission.
• Pregnancy complications: Trichomoniasis during pregnancy can result in preterm birth, leading to a low birth weight for the baby. Low birth weight elevates the risk of health and developmental issues for the newborn. Although rare, there’s a possibility of the baby contracting trichomoniasis during delivery. Fortunately, trichomoniasis can be treated during pregnancy, and it’s essential to discuss treatment options with your healthcare provider.

Preventing Trichomoniasis

The most effective way to completely avoid trichomoniasis is by abstaining from vaginal sex. However, if that’s not feasible, there are other measures you can take to reduce your risk of contracting it:

1. Consistently use latex condoms. Latex condoms provide a barrier that can help lower the risk of contracting or transmitting trichomoniasis. Ensure the condom is worn early during sexual activity to prevent contact before full protection is in place.
2. Avoid douching: Douching disrupts the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina, which can increase the likelihood of contracting STDs, including trichomoniasis. It’s essential to maintain the natural bacterial balance for vaginal health.
3. Maintain monogamy or limit partners: Sticking with one sexual partner who has tested negative for STDs can significantly reduce the risk of trichomoniasis transmission. Alternatively, if monogamy isn’t possible, consider reducing the number of sexual partners to minimize exposure.
4. Open communication with partners: Discussing sexual histories and potential risk factors openly with your partners can help you make informed decisions about sexual health. This communication allows for mutual understanding and helps in making choices that prioritize health and well-being.

Sources

1. CDC
2. Cleveland Clinic
3. Medscape
4. WomensHealth.gov
5. Mayo Clinic
6. Merck Manual Consumer Version
7. Nemours/KidsHealth
8. Avert
9. LabTestsOnline