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Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease which is caused by a parasitic organism known as trichomoniasis vaginalis (TV). Although most men and women may not notice any symptoms for others, the symptom may take up to one month before it becomes visible. Its symptoms are similar to that of other STIs so it can be difficult to differentiate it from others.
A swab is taken from the vagina or penis, and the private area is examined for visible signs of the infection. The swab is taken to the laboratory for examination. If the test is positive, it’s advised to discontinue sex with your current sexual partner(s) unless they go for treatment too.
The parasite that causes trichomoniasis is called trichomoniasis vaginalis. The parasite inflates the urethra and vagina in women. In men, the parasite attacks the urethra including the head of the penis or prostate gland.
The disease is spread when a person has unprotected sex with an infected person or through the sharing of sex toys without washing or covering them with new condoms before each use. You could have trichomoniasis through a single sexual activity either with one partner or multiple partners.
Trichomoniasis can be transmitted through oral sex, having sex with multiple sexual partners, anal or vaginal sex and sleeping with an infected person.
Also, it cannot be transmitted when you share the same toilet with an infected person, sharing cutleries or eating together in the same plate.
Without effective treatment, it’s difficult to combat trichomoniasis. Typically, it’s treated using an antibiotic called metronidazole, which is taken for up to a week and two times daily.
It is advised to complete the entire dose of the antibiotics to avoid reinfection and also to avoid contact with an infected person during the treatment period. Ensure your sex partner is treated. If not, always use a condom during any sexual intercourse with such a partner.
It’s likely uncommon to experience any complication from trichomoniasis. However, most women experience some problems with fertility as a result of the infection. Pregnant women with the infection have the risks of delivering before their due date and the baby having a low birth weight.
Contact us today at STI Clinic London for more information on trichomiasis and how you can get tested.