Parasitic/Trichomoniasis

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Trichomoniasis

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Symptoms, Transmission, and Treatment of Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease or STD. It is sometimes referred to as trich or trichomonas, and it is caused by a parasite known as a trichomona. This parasite is commonly found in sexual fluids, including vaginal, pre cum, and semen.

Trich Symptoms

Many people with trichomoniasis don't display any symptoms and don't know they have it. Three out of every ten people who are infected may notice symptoms approximately three to thirty days after being exposed. When symptoms do occur, they only involve the vulva, vagina, or penis because trichomoniasis does not infect other parts of the body such as the anus or mouth.

For women, the first noticeable symptom is itching of the vagina or vulva, which is referred to as vaginitis. Men and women with trichomoniasis can also develop an infection of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the body. If the urethra becomes infected, urination is accompanied by a bad odor or discomfort. Frequent urination often occurs as well. Irritation and itching can also occur.

Symptoms can include:

Itching inside or near the vagina
Discomfort during urination or sex
Genital swelling
Foul-smelling discharge
Bloody discharge
Frequent urination or urge to urinate

Related Testing

► STD Lab Testing

► Home STD Test

Transmission

According to the CDC, approximately 3.7 million people in the United States currently have trichomoniasis. It is perhaps the most common type of curable STD. Not only can people become reinfected with this disease, but they also have a higher risk of getting HIV if they are already infected with trich.

Trichomoniasis is spread through unprotected sexual contact with an individual who is infected with this disease. It spreads easily once infected sexual fluids touch at individual's vulva, vagina, or penis. It is most commonly spread during vaginal sex. Even if sex does not occur, it is easily spread through contact if infected fluids are present on the genitals, hands, or sex toys.

You cannot catch trich through casual contact. Since it does not infect the mouth, you cannot catch this disease by kissing, sharing drinks or food, coughing, or sneezing.

Treatments

Trichomonas is easily cured using physician-prescribed antibiotics. A single dose of tinidazole or metronidazole can cure your infection, but your sexual partner must also be treated with antibiotics if infected to avoid transferring the disease back to you.

Conclusion

The best way to avoid trichomoniasis is to practice safe sex. Not only can the use of condoms keep you protected against this disease, but it can also help you to avoid other sexually transmitted diseases. If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as irritation or smelly discharge, you should get tested immediately. Quick diagnosis is your best option when a sexually transmitted disease is involved.