Trichomoniasis Information

Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted disease that is also referred to as "Trichomonas"or "Trich"and is caused by the parasite Trichomonas Vaginalis. Although Trichomoniasis affects both males and females, the infection can cause more severe symptoms in women.

What are the statistics for Trichomoniasis?

Each year in the United States, millions of sexually active individuals become infected with Trichomoniasis. With an estimated 7.4 million new cases of infection each year, Trichomoniasis is the most common curable STD found amongst young women.

How is Trichomoniasis transmitted?

Trichomoniasis infections are caused by having sexual contact with an infected individual. The infection is caused by direct genital-to-genital contact, including sexual intercourse. Trichomoniasis is most easily transmitted to the vagina, putting women of any sexual orientation at the highest risk of infection.

What are the symptoms of Trichomoniasis?

As with many sexually transmitted diseases, most people that are infected with Trichomoniasis never display symptoms. However, when physical symptoms do appear, they normally show up 3 to 21 days after sexual contact with an infected individual. Symptoms for both men and women are:

Women infected with Trichomoniasis can experience:

• Unusual vaginal discharge that can be categorized as frothy, greenish-yellow, or gray with a foul odor
• Genital itching or irritation
• Soreness of the vagina
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Burning sensation or general discomfort when urinating
• In rare cases, some women may experience lower abdominal pain

Men infected with Trichomoniasis can experience:

• Abnormal discharge from the penis
• Burning sensation during urination and/or ejaculation

What are the complications of Trichomoniasis?

Untreated Trichomoniasis in women can cause various gynecological problems. Specifically, Trichomoniasis can cause genital inflammation that increases a woman's chances of contracting HIV, and can also increase her chances of transmitting an HIV infection to a sexual partner. Additionally, there can be complications related to pregnancy, including premature birth and low birth weight.

Can you get tested for Trichomoniasis?

Yes. At getSTDtested.com, we use a urine test, the technical name of which is the "Trichomoniasis Vaginalis RNA Qualitative TMA"test. You can test for Trichomoniasis from the comfort of your own home with our at-home Trichomoniasis collection kit. The collection kit uses a urine sample for men and a swab sample for women.

Should pregnant women get tested for Trichomoniasis?

Yes, as women that are pregnant and infected with Trichomoniasis may have complications with their pregnancy. These complications can include premature birth, or a low birth weight (normally categorized by a birth where the newborn is less than 5.5 lbs).

Is there a cure or treatment for Trichomoniasis?

Yes - Trichomoniasis can be easily cured with prescription medication. The most commonly prescribed cures for Trichomoniasis are a single dose of either Metronidazole or Tinidazole. It is important to note that if you are infected with Trichomoniasis and effectively cured, you are still susceptible to re-infection. If you test positive for Trichomoniasis, our on-call physician can prescribe treatment to you for an additional cost.

How can I prevent Trichomoniasis from happening to me?

As is the same with any STD, the only sure way to avoid Trichomoniasis infection is to abstain from sexual activity, or to stay in a monogamous relationship where both partners thoroughly know their sexual health (and are uninfected with Trichomoniasis). Additionally, a latex condom can help reduce the chances of transmitting and contracting sexually transmitted diseases and infections.