Trichomonas vaginitis is a common sexually transmitted disease caused by a parasite that thrives in the vagina. Symptoms include itching, discharge, and painful intercourse. It can be easily treated with antiparasitic drugs, but males rarely show symptoms, putting female partners at risk. Safe sex practices are recommended to prevent recurring infections.
Trichomonas vaginitis is a very common sexually transmitted disease. It is caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis, which thrives in the warm, moist atmosphere provided by the mucous membranes of the vagina. The disease can be transmitted through genital-to-genital contact with males and other females. Trichomonas vaginitis can cause symptoms of itching, unusual discharge, and painful intercourse that usually appear a few days after coming into contact with the parasite. When the disease is discovered early, it is easily treated with a single oral dose of an antiparasitic drug.
Sexually active young females who do not use adequate protection are at the highest risk of contracting Trichomonas vaginitis. It is among the most common sexually transmitted diseases in the world. The main reason it is so prevalent is that males rarely develop symptoms when carrying the parasite, so infected men may unknowingly put their female sexual partners at risk. Direct genital contact is necessary to transmit the disease; the parasite cannot cause infection through oral or anal intercourse.
Most women who contract Trichomonas vaginitis begin experiencing symptoms within the first week of infection, although the parasite can occasionally lie dormant for several weeks or months. The first signs of infection typically include itching sensations in and around the vaginal opening. Parasites can cause a thin, foamy, green or yellow discharge that is accompanied by a distinct, unpleasant odor. Some infected women also experience pain or burning sensations during intercourse or urination. The disease lowers a person’s immune system defenses and increases the likelihood of contracting other infections, whether sexually transmitted or not.
It is important to visit a gynecologist or general practitioner whenever a sexually transmitted disease is suspected. A doctor can perform a careful physical exam and collect samples of mucus and secretions for laboratory testing. In most cases, the samples are screened for Trichomonas vaginitis and many other possible diseases that may be responsible for the symptoms.
The standard treatment for trichomonas vaginitis is a single dose of metronidazole or tinidazole given locally at your doctor’s office or clinic. Patients are advised to avoid alcohol for at least two days after taking the drug to prevent complications. Additionally, women who are being treated for the disease are strongly encouraged to inform their previous sexual partners so they can be tested and treated. Practicing safe sex in the future helps reduce the chances of recurring infections.
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