Sexually transmitted disease (STD): Trichomoniasis
Most common STDs:
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) have been with us since forever and, despite medical efforts to curb their incidence, statistics continue to show worrisome data.
However, it seems clear that any change must be based on the following:
- Periodic gynecological checkups for early detection and as a way to prevent further complications and contagion.
- Use of condoms. When properly used, a latex is a highly effective barrier
- Knowledge of the symptoms and scope of the different sexually transmitted diseases and of the ways to prevent them.
- Awareness of sexual practices and of the effects of sexual promiscuity among young people.
With the proper social awareness, it is likely that with the passage of time, the most common STDs, like trichomoniasis, will be less frequent and intense.
What is Trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis has become one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases. It is a type of vulvovaginitis: infection or inflammation located in the area of the vulva and vagina.
Trichomoniasis is, therefore, an infection, in this case transmitted by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, which can be found in the female vagina or urethra and in the male urethra, prostate and epididymis.
Trichomoniasis: symptoms and infection
Trichomoniasis, as most sexually transmitted diseases, does not always present symptoms. This is one of the main reasons why its eradication is so complicated, because even when asymptomatic, trichomoniasis is transmitted – unlike other vulvovaginitis – only through sexual intercourse.
When they do appear, symptoms that suggest trichomoniasis are:
- Inflammation, redness and itching both on the vulva and around the vagina.
- Abnormal vaginal discharge, dense and yellowish or slightly green, accompanied, although not always, of an intense and unpleasant odor.
- Itching when urinating.
- Dyspareunia or discomfort during sex.
- Lower abdomen pain.
Men can detect secretions in the penis, itching or irritation inside the penis or burning after urinating.
It is important to underline that for the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis to be able to survive and develop optimally, it needs a pH of 5.5. That is, the infection will not take root in a healthy urogenital tract with a pH of 4-4.5.
Trichomoniasis: complications
The main risk of this STD, in addition to contagion, is that it may trigger other STDs.
Also, pregnant women risk having premature and underweight babies.
Trichomoniasis: diagnosis
Since this STD does not always show symptoms, its diagnosis requires gynecological exam and laboratory analysis of the supposedly infected discharge.
Trichomoniasis: treatment
The treatment of trichomoniasis is relatively simple and will require a single dose of antibiotics, even in pregnant women.
Sexual intercourse is discouraged until one week after the start of treatment. Sexual partners must also be treated, even if they do not present symptoms. This is important in order to prevent avoid the reappearance of the disease after the antibiotics, something that happens in 1 out of 5 cases, according to the statistics.
Trichomoniasis: prevention
Although there is no 100% effective prevention method, the advice given above will help: regular gynecology checkup, use of condoms, information and awareness.
We hope this article has been useful for you. You will find further information at the website of the Unidad de la Mujer. You can also contact us at the number (+34) 917 303 673
