Most common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs): Trichomoniasis
What is trichomoniasis, what are its symptoms, and how can this STD be prevented?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have plagued humankind since time immemorial. Despite medical efforts to curb their incidence, statistics continue to reveal worrying data.
However, it seems clear that the change must be based on the following pillars:
- Regular gynecological check-ups to detect infection as early as possible. This prevents the diseases themselves from becoming a more complex problem for the person suffering from them. Not to mention, of course, that they also prevent transmission.
- Use of condom as a primary preventative method. When used correctly, it provides a highly effective latex barrier.
- Diffusion of knowledge relating to the symptoms and scope of different STIs and prevention mechanisms.
- Acquisition by the YOUNG, the most vulnerable sector, of a clear awareness about sexual practices and effects of promiscuity.
Once these guidelines have permeated society, over time, they will possibly be Most common STIsfor example the Trichomoniasis, reduce their frequency and intensity.
What is Trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis has become one of the most common sexually transmitted infections today. This STD falls under the category of vulvovaginitis , which are infections or inflammations located in the vulva and vagina.
Trichomoniasis is, therefore, an infection. In this case, it is transmitted by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis , which can be found in the vagina or urethra of women, and in the urethra, prostate, or epididymis of men.
Trichomoniasis
Symptoms and contagion
Trichomoniasis, like most sexually transmitted infections, doesn't always cause symptoms in infected individuals. This is one of the main reasons why eradicating it is so difficult. Even without obvious signs, it can be transmitted—unlike other vulvovaginitis infections—solely and exclusively through sexual contact.
When they appear, the symptoms that may indicate a possible Trichomoniasis infection are:
- Inflammation, redness, and itching of the vulva and around the entrance to the vagina.
- A heavy, thick, yellowish or slightly greenish vaginal discharge. It is accompanied, although not always, by a strong, unpleasant odor.
- Burning when urinating.
- Dyspareunia or discomfort during sexual intercourse.
- Pain in the lower abdomen.
Men may notice discharge from the penis, itching or irritation inside it, or burning after urinating.
It is necessary to emphasize that for the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis survive and develop optimally 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.
Complications
The main risk of this STD, besides its contagion, is that it is a trigger for other sexually transmitted diseases.
In addition, pregnant women may experience premature labor and their babies may be born with a lower than recommended weight.
Discovery
Since this STI does not always cause symptoms, its diagnosis cannot be based on them, even if symptoms are present. Therefore, a gynecological examination and laboratory analysis of the suspected infected discharge are required to make a reliable diagnosis.
Treatment
Trichomoniasis is relatively easy to treat and requires only a single dose of antibiotics . It can even be administered to pregnant women.
It is recommended to abstain from sexual relations for one week after starting treatment. The sexual partner of the affected person should also receive the antibiotic, regardless of whether they show symptoms. These instructions are important to prevent the disease from recurring after the antibiotic treatment, which occurs in 1 out of every 5 cases, according to statistics.
How to prevent trichomoniasis and other STIs
Although no method of prevention is 100% effective, the recommendations mentioned at the beginning of this article will help to manage the disease. These include regular checkups, condom use, information, and awareness.
In this video, Dr. Duque explains some guidelines for preventing this and other STDs:
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If you found this article interesting and would like to be seen by a specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics, the Women's Unit at Ruber International Hospital has a specialized department in this area. You can request more information by calling 91 387 51 72/73/74 or schedule an in-person appointment with top specialists.