Understanding Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. It can affect both men and women, though it’s most common in women. The infection is usually spread through sexual contact, although it can sometimes be passed on through sharing sex toys too.
In women, trichomoniasis affects the vagina, urethra, and cervix, leading to various symptoms such as itching, burning with urination, and an abnormal discharge. In men, the infection primarily affects the urethra, causing discharge and discomfort while urinating. However, some people with trichomoniasis may not experience any symptoms at all.
Can Trichomoniasis be Cured?
The good news is that trichomoniasis can be cured with appropriate treatment. The bad news is that if left untreated, the infection can cause serious health complications down the road. Therefore, it’s crucial to get diagnosed and treated as soon as possible if you suspect you have trichomoniasis.
What are the Treatment Options?
Typically, trichomoniasis is treated with antibiotics. The most common antibiotic prescribed for this infection is metronidazole. It’s taken either as a single dose or a 7-day course. Another prescription antibiotic is tinidazole, which is a one-time dose, but it’s not as commonly used as metronidazole.
If you’re diagnosed with trichomoniasis, your healthcare provider may also recommend that your partner be treated simultaneously, even if they don’t show any symptoms. This is because the infection can be passed between sexual partners, and treating both at the same time can help prevent re-infection.
How Long Does it Take to Cure Trichomoniasis?
The length of treatment for trichomoniasis varies depending on the medication prescribed by your healthcare provider. If you’re taking metronidazole, you’ll likely need to take it for 7 days. However, some people may only need a single dose of the medication.
During treatment, it’s important to avoid sexual contact, as the infection can be easily passed on. Even after you’ve completed the medication, your healthcare provider may recommend abstaining from sex for at least a week to reduce the risk of re-infection.
Can Trichomoniasis Come Back After Treatment?
It’s possible for trichomoniasis to come back after treatment, especially if you engage in sexual activity with an infected partner or partners. In fact, studies have shown that up to 17% of people can experience a recurrence of the infection within three months of completing treatment.
If you experience recurrent trichomoniasis, your healthcare provider may recommend a different treatment approach. This may include an extended course of antibiotics or combining different medications to treat the infection.
What Happens if Trichomoniasis is Left Untreated?
If left untreated, trichomoniasis can lead to serious health complications. In women, it can increase the risk of contracting other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as HIV. It may also lead to infertility or pelvic inflammatory disease, which can cause chronic pain and infertility.
In pregnant women, trichomoniasis may cause complications such as preterm birth or low birth weight. In rare cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, leading to infections in the liver, lungs, and brain.
Preventing Trichomoniasis
The best way to prevent trichomoniasis is to practice safe sex. This means using condoms or dental dams during sexual activity, even if both partners are showing no symptoms. Avoid sharing sex toys with others, and wash them thoroughly after each use. It’s also important to get regular STI testing and treatment, especially if you’re sexually active with multiple partners.
Conclusion
Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection that can be easily treated with appropriate medication. However, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent serious health complications down the road. Practicing safe sex can also help prevent the spread of trichomoniasis and other STIs.
FAQs
- Q: Can you get trichomoniasis if you use a condom?
- A: Yes, you can still get trichomoniasis even if you use a condom, as the parasite can infect areas of the genitals that aren’t covered by the condom.
- Q: How long does it take for trichomoniasis symptoms to appear?
- A: Symptoms of trichomoniasis usually appear within 5-28 days of exposure.
- Q: Can you get trichomoniasis from a toilet seat?
- A: No, it’s not possible to contract trichomoniasis from a toilet seat, as the infection is only spread through sexual contact or sharing sex toys.
References
1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2015). Trichomoniasis – CDC Fact Sheet. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
2. Huppert, J. S. (2017). Trichomoniasis in Adolescents: A Review. Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, 30(3), 268-271. doi: 10.1016/j.jpag.2016.10.013
3. Kissinger P. (2015). Trichomonas vaginalis: a review of epidemiologic, clinical and treatment issues. BMC infectious diseases, 15,(1), 307. doi: 10.1186/s12879-015-1055-0