Trichomoniasis Symptoms

FAQ About Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis, or Trich, is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by a single-celled parasite known as trichomonas. This parasite is carried in sexual fluids and is one of the most common STDs in the United States. Fortunately, testing is simple and pain free and treatment is available.

Increase your knowledge of the symptoms of Trichomoniasis and what steps to take to enjoy a successful recovery.

What is Trichomoniasis?

As mentioned previously, Trichomoniasis (Trich) is a common STD. It is caused by a single-celled protozoan organism called the Trichomonas vaginalis and is very common within the United States. In fact, at any given time, millions of individuals are infected with Trichomonas.

Regular testing and exercising effective prevention methods can help to avoid the infection in you and your partner(s).

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A More Detailed Look at Trichomoniasis Symptoms

About 30% of those who carry the parasite will show no symptoms. Studies have shown that approximately 80% of women carrying the parasite are asymptomatic, meaning they show no symptoms. This can make it difficult to catch Trichomoniasis. Regular testing is key to catching these infections.

Some people don’t realize they have Trichomoniasis until more serious symptoms begin to develop. Knowing what symptoms to look for can make it easier to catch the infection. Men and women can display different symptoms of Trichomoniasis. For your convenience, we’ve listed below some of the most common symptoms of Trichomoniasis for women and men.

Symptoms of Trichomoniasis in Women

  • Pain while urinating
  • Itchiness or burning around the vagina
  • Swelling or redness of the vagina
  • Vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor
  • Frequent urge to urinate
  • Vaginal spotting or bleeding

Fortunately, these symptoms can be treated and cured. If you believe you have been exposed to Trichomoniasis or are experiencing any of the above symptoms, contact your doctor as soon as possible. One of the first steps to recovery is getting tested, so don’t delay scheduling your Trichomoniasis test another day.

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Symptoms of Trichomoniasis in Men

  • Pain while urinating
  • Frequent urge to urinate
  • Burning after ejaculation
  • Discharge from the urethra

Fortunately, these symptoms can be treated and cured. If you believe you have been exposed to Trichomoniasis or are experiencing any of the above symptoms, contact your doctor as soon as possible. One of the first steps to recovery is getting tested, so don’t delay scheduling your Trichomoniasis test another day.

Preventing Trichomoniasis

As with any STD, a key ingredient in prevention is knowing how it is transmitted. Trichomoniasis is carried through sexual fluids like semen, pre-ejaculate, and vaginal fluids. It can be easily spread but cannot be transmitted through casual contact, sharing food, kissing, hugging, coughing, sneezing, or hand holding.

Another effective prevention method is the practice of safe sex. Condoms and dentals dams are effective barriers against infected parts of the body. Avoiding the sharing of sex toys is another effective prevention method. These objects easily spread the infection between individuals because they are exposed to sexual fluids.

One of the most effective ways to prevent Trichomoniasis is abstinence. Waiting to engage in sexual activities until a long-term relationship has been established can prevent infection and complications in the relationship. Abstinence can also last long enough for you and your partner to get tested and receive your results. Abstinence is a healthy and responsible way to prevent spreading Trichomoniasis.

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Testing for Trichomoniasis

Self-diagnosis isn’t enough to confirm if you have contracted Trichomoniasis. Since many of the symptoms of Trichomoniasis are quite similar to other STDs like Chlamydia and Gonorrhea, testing is the only way to accurately diagnose the infection.

Testing for Trichomoniasis consists of a simple urine sample. Once the sample is sent to the lab it will be analyzed for signs of the parasite. It can take 2 to 3 days to get results back. If you receive positive results, your doctor will work with you to decide on the best treatment plan for your needs.

Treatment for Trichomoniasis

Your doctor might prescribe antibiotics for you before you get your results back if they feel it is necessary. Typical treatment for Trichomoniasis symptoms includes a dose of antibiotics, usually tinidazole or metronidazole. A single dose of the antibiotic is generally all that is required, meaning after taking one pill you should begin to notice your symptoms clear up. This process takes about a week and you will want to wait that long before beginning any sexual activity, even if no symptoms are present, to ensure it was effective in treating the infection.

Using a sensitive approach, encourage your partner, or partners, to get tested and seek treatment too. Overcoming the embarrassment and worry of discussing your Trichomoniasis infection with your partner(s) can reduce the risk of reinfection for you and your partner.

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Pregnancy and Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis can lead to preterm birth, a low birth weight, or preterm premature rupture of the membranes (PPROM). There is also a rare chance of passing Trichomoniasis to the baby during birth. In the event that the baby contracts the parasite, an antibiotic can be prescribed for easy treatment.

You should get tested as soon as possible if you are pregnant, or might be pregnant, and are experiencing symptoms of Trichomoniasis.