Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease that is passed from one person to another through unprotected sexual contact with an infected partner. Most sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs, do not exhibit noticeable symptoms, so an infected person may not know they carry the disease. If you are sexually active with multiple partners, it's wise to get screened regularly.
Symptoms
Although some people have no symptoms of trichomoniasis, others will have very noticeable symptoms such as burning and painful urination, discharge from the vagina or penis, bumps or sores in the genital or rectal area, fever and unusual vaginal bleeding. Advanced infections can cause pelvic pain, sores anywhere on the body, recurrent genital sores and pain during intercourse.
Diagnosis
A pelvic exam is usually administered by a doctor to check if there are any sores present. A sample from a genital sore or discharge is sent to the lab, which will tell what kind of bacteria is present and which drugs will be the most successful in treatment. A blood test can also confirm if an STD is present.
Treatment
Antibiotics are the normal treatment for trichomoniasis. It's important to take all of the medication to rid your body of the disease. Left untreated, trichomoniasis can increase your risk of getting the HIV virus and other medical conditions such as infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, memory loss, cervical cancer, arthritis and heart disease.
Prevention
Practicing safe sex by using latex condoms lowers your risk of contracting trichomoniasis. Urinating and washing before and after sex, keeping one sexual partner and practicing safe sex with a new partner can help you avoid the risk of trichomoniasis. Do not share swimsuits or towels, as the trichomoniasis parasite can live for up to 45 minutes in moist environments. Shower after using public pools.
Tags: noticeable symptoms, sexually transmitted, your risk