Each year, approximately 7.4 million new cases of trichomoniasis occur in the United States, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Trichomoniasis, which is also referred to as "trich" for short, is a sexually transmitted disease that can be contracted by intimate contact with an infected partner. Sexually active people should be aware of the causes, symptoms and treatments of trichomoniasis.
Cause
Trichomoniasis only has one cause. It is a bacterial infection caused by a single-celled protozoon called trichomonas vaginalis, reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Typically this bacterium is transmitted through vaginal intercourse or vulvar contact with an infected person. Though women can contract trichomoniasis from infected men or women, men generally only develop this infection following exposure to an infected female.
Symptoms
Symptoms of trichomoniasis can arise within five to 28 days following initial exposure to the bacteria, the Mayo Clinic reports. Men with this infection typically do not experience symptoms, although men may notice a burning sensation during urination or ejaculation. This infection can still be transmitted to uninfected partners even if an infected person does not develop noticeable symptoms. Women with trichomoniasis develop discolored vaginal discharge that appears white, yellow, gray or green in color and may emit a strong, unpleasant smell. Additional symptoms of trichomoniasis in women include vaginal itching or irritation and pain during intercourse or urination. These symptoms of trichomoniasis can also be signs of alternate infections, such as a urinary tract infection or another type of sexually transmitted disease. Men and women who develop any unusual genital or urinary symptoms should be evaluated by a medical professional.
Treatment
The most common forms of treatment for this infection include oral administration of either metronidazole or tinidazole, which are generic prescription antibiotics, according to the CDC. People should discuss the potential side effects of treatment with a doctor before taking either of these antibiotics. Both intimate partners should be treated for trichomoniasis even if one partner does not display symptoms, as treating both partners can help prevent reinfection. While taking medication for trichomoniasis, people should not engage in sexual intercourse until symptoms and treatment end.
