Trichomoniasis, or “trich,” is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). Trichomoniasis is a parasite infection caused by Trichomonas vaginalis. According to the CDC, an estimated 3.7 million people in the U.S. have this disease.
How Does Trichomoniasis Spread?
The Trichomonas vaginalis parasite is typically spread through unprotected sexual intercourse. This means that you can get these diseases by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person. You can also get the disease by genital touching.
You can reduce the risk of getting it by using condoms and avoid vaginal douching.
Signs and Symptoms of Trichomoniasis
Not everyone with Trichomoniasis experiences signs and symptoms–which is why this infection is so widespread.
Men are less likely to be symptomatic than women. When symptomatic, men usually experience pain, itching, or a burning sensation in their penis. They may also experience discharge from their penis.
Women–if symptomatic–often experience pain, itching, or a burning sensation in their vagina. They may also experience unusual vaginal discharge (which can be yellowish, greenish, frothy, and foul-smelling).
According to the CDC, pregnant women with Trichomoniasis are more likely to have their babies delivered too early. Babies who are born to infected mothers are also more likely to have a low birth weight.
Both men and women may experience pain during sex when infected with trichomonas.
Trichomoniasis Testing
If your doctor suspects that you might have a trichomonas infection, they will either order a laboratory test to confirm the diagnosis, or if the symptoms are typical, they may treat you without testing.
Treatment for Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is an easily treated infection; the most common regimen is a week-long course of metronidazole (Flagyl). While a one-time dose of Flagyl may also treat the infection, it is less effective than the week-long course.
Furthermore, it is essential not to drink any alcohol while taking metronidazole, as the combination may lead to severe and unpleasant side effects, which include nausea, vomiting, and a flushing reaction.
How to Get Help with Trichomoniasis
If you or your partner experience any of the symptoms above or test positive for an STI, do not delay getting treated.
QuickMD can send the appropriate antibiotics directly to your pharmacy via phone, video, or chat–from the privacy of your home. Click here to make an appointment or speak to a doctor now. If you would like to get tested, you can order your own STD test here and have it done at a LabCorp location closest to you.
