Trichomoniasis is a parasitic infection you can get through sexual contact, affecting people of any gender. In the U.S., it affects about 2.1% of individuals assigned female at birth and 0.5% of those assigned male at birth, making it quite common. Even though many people with trichomoniasis don’t show symptoms, signs like unusual genital discharge or irritation can appear days after infection.
To diagnose trichomoniasis, healthcare providers will conduct physical exams and run tests like cultures and microscopic reviews. Treatment involves antibiotics, and it’s crucial that both partners get treated to prevent reinfection. Avoiding sexual activity until symptoms clear can help prevent spreading the infection.
Trichomoniasis often occurs alongside other STIs like chlamydia or gonorrhea. Although it’s prevalent, it’s curable, which gives hope to those affected. Many people with trichomoniasis don’t show symptoms, but if they do, these can appear within 5 to 28 days after infection. These symptoms might come and go.
The infection is caused by the Trichomonas vaginalis parasite, which can survive in moist areas and is found in the genitourinary tract. People are more at risk if they engage in unprotected sex, and studies have shown that lower education levels, poverty, and smoking are also risk factors.
If you think you might have trichomoniasis, it’s crucial for you and your sexual partners to seek medical advice. Doctors might ask about past STI treatments and condom use as part of their assessments. They might use various tests with different sensitivity rates to confirm the diagnosis or the cure of the STI. Other tests might be conducted to rule out additional infections.
For treatment, metronidazole and tinidazole are the primary antibiotics used, but the dosage can vary based on gender. Pregnant individuals should be treated promptly as the infection can impact pregnancy outcomes. Importantly, tinidazole is not recommended during pregnancy.
Prevention is possible by refraining from sex or practicing monogamy with a partner who’s been tested for STIs. Correct condom use can also minimize risk. Being sexually active can lead to reinfection, which happens to about 20% of people within three months after treatment. Additionally, chronic trichomoniasis can increase the risk of other STIs, pelvic inflammatory disease in females, and certain complications in males.
Although trichomoniasis is one of the most common STIs, it’s also one of the four easiest to cure, especially with the effective use of metronidazole. Ensuring that partners are treated increases the chances of successful treatment. It’s important to discuss STI risks with potential partners and consult with healthcare professionals for guidance on when to get tested.
