Sexual health is something we all should take very seriously. While it may be an uncomfortable subject for some, it is still very important to be educated on the different illnesses that may compromise one’s sexual health.
One ailment in particular that can put a person’s sexual health at risk is trichomoniasis. This sexually transmitted infection (STI) is worth mentioning because, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is very common in the US.
How common is trichomoniasis in the US? To put it plainly, “[it is estimated that there were] more than two million trichomoniasis infections in 2018 [alone].” The abundance of this particular sexually transmitted disease (STD) is concerning. Thus it is important to be aware of its symptoms, treatments, and testing options.
*What is the difference between a sexually transmitted infection, STI, and a sexually transmitted disease, STD? According to Verywell Health, an STI is an infection that is transmitted through sexual activity. These infections may or may not show symptoms and become a sexually transmitted disease. Keep in mind, STD and STI terminology are used interchangeably, so that is why both terms are used in this article.
What is Trichomoniasis?
According to the Mayo Clinic, trichomoniasis is an STI that is caused by a parasite. This parasite is called trichomonas vaginalis and as Kids Health explains, it is often referred to as “trich.”
Cleveland Clinic mentions that what makes this STI worrisome, is that many people with trich, do not show any outward symptoms alarming them they are infected. This allows this STI to spread quickly and without detection.
Trich is most often spread by having unprotected sex, but according to the National Health Service (NHS), “it could also be spread by sharing sex toys if you do not wash them.” Also in rare instances this infection can be spread non sexually when people share bath water, towels, toilet seats, and swimming pools. However, the National Library of Medicine remarks that more studies need to be conducted to solidify evidence of this.
Trichomoniasis Symptoms
If symptoms do appear, Planned Parenthood states trich often causes vaginitis or in other words, vulva and vagina irritation in women and irritation inside the penis for men. They also mention that the urethra can also be affected, causing painful or frequent urination.
Symptoms of trichomoniasis vary from person to person and can affect men and women differently.
Trichomoniasis in Men
Trichomoniasis symptoms in men as mentioned in an article published by the Mayo Clinic include:
- Itchiness or irritation inside the penis
- A burning sensation during urination or post ejaculation
- Unusual discharge from the penis
If not treated in a timely manner, trichomoniasis may cause more serious problems. Kids Health explains that if left untreated, symptoms can be as severe as:
- Irritation and inflammation of the tubes near the back of the testicles
- Swelling of the prostate
- Infertility
- Having a higher chance of getting prostate cancer
Trichomoniasis in Women
The Mayo Clinic also states that trichomoniasis symptoms in women may include:
- Foul smelling vaginal discharge
- Painful urination
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Bleeding after sexual intercourse
If untreated, Kids Health warns that symptoms can escalate for women too. Problems like:
- Infertility
- Having a higher chance of getting cervical cancer
- Having a greater chance of contracting HIV if intercourse is had with someone with HIV
Is Trichomoniasis Curable?
In the event that you contract trichomoniasis, there is some light at the end of the tunnel. Trichomoniasis treatment is very simple. Unfortunately this illness does not go away on its own if untreated, but the Cleveland Clinic states that it is curable through the use of antibiotics.
Prevention of Trichomoniasis
To prevent contracting trichomoniasis, it is recommended by the American Sexual Health Association (ASHA) that condoms are used during sexual intercourse. Kids Health puts it bluntly by explaining that the only way to truly avoid getting this STD or other STDs, is to simply not have sex. This includes: oral sex, vaginal sex, or anal sex. Unfortunately, this is not a real solution.
To avoid any serious health issues, if you are sexually active, you should get tested for STDs every year or more depending on your healthcare provider’s recommendations. This will help you maintain your sexual health throughout life.
Where Do I Get an STD Test For Trichomoniasis?
To help determine if you may have trich, testing options are available. At Advanced Urgent Care & Occupational Medicine we offer a lab send-out test. Walk-in or reserve your spot online for an urgent care visit to get tested. Test results are available in 3 to 7 days. Other common STDs to get tested for are gonorrhea and chlamydia.
Get Tested Today!
Testing for STDs is offered at all Advanced Urgent Care & Occupational Medicine clinics across the Denver metro area. Click here to view our clinic locations and to reserve your spot for an urgent care visit today.