by Eileen Eva

Created on: October 04, 2010

Colloquially known as "Trich", Trichomoniasis is sexually transmitted disease and caused by Trichomoniasis Vaginalis (a protozoan). The disease is usually spread through sexual intercourse and very common. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 7.4 million new infections yearly, beating Chlamydia (2.2 million.)

It is diagnosed and treated by a professional by use of antibiotics called Metronidazole or Tinidazole. Women are the most affected by this disease than men. It is more contagious than other STDs as it not only spreads through sexual intercourse but also through sharing of items such as wet towels, toilet seats or bathing suits.

Trichomoniasis symptoms

Most people will not show symptoms of Trichomoniasis and women and men have different symptoms.

• Women: The symptoms would range from asymptomatic (having no symptoms) to severe symptoms. They appear within 5-28hrs after contact. Symptoms are: - • Foul smell • Itchy vagina • Reddish vagina • Frothy green discharge • Lower abdominal discomforts • Painful sexual intercourse • Urge to urinate

• Men: Symptoms are not pronounced or severe like in women, they are temporary and include: - • Irritation inside the penis (urethra) • Urge to urinate • A burning sensation during and after urination • Discharge from the urethra • A burning sensation during and after ejaculation How Trichomoniasis is diagnosed:

Trichomoniasis diagnosis is done through laboratory tests on fluid specimen from the vagina or penis.

Diagnosing Women:

A professional usually gives a pelvic examination so as to collect vaginal samples for further testing. After, the specimen is studied through a microscope to view the parasite. However, the best way for Trichomoniasis is through culturing. It takes 3-7 days to obtain results.

 Diagnosing men:

This is done by examining specimen collected from the urethra. However, diagnosing men in most cases is 100% inaccurate because of the mistakes involved during testing. When this happens, the healthcare provider will have to take additional tests.

How is Trichomoniasis treated?

It is easily cured with prescription drugs. Metronidazole or Tinidazole are antibiotics that are used to cure Trichomoniasis through a single oral dose. In men, the symptoms may disappear without treatment. However, a man can continue to infect his partner(s) until he is treated. It’s sensible both partners be treated together. If under a treatment, you should avoid sexual intercourse until your partner is completely treated. In pregnant women, Metronidazole is used. Once cured, it doesn’t imply that you can’t get infected again. To self medicate although not encouraged, use a single dose of Flagyl 2000 mg.

How to Prevent Trichomoniasis?

The safest way to prevent Trichomoniasis is through safe sexual practices like correct and consistence use of male and female condoms and getting tested with your spouse before engaging in live sex.

A person treated should also urge the partners to do the same to reduce any complications associated with the disease.

Sources:

Centres for Disease Control and Prevention - Trichomoniasis - CDC Fact Sheet

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