The STI nobody talks about: Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis, otherwise known as Trich, is a sexually transmitted disease caused by a parasite. It is one of the more common and curable of STIs. The biggest problem being that many folks are unaware that they have it! This lack of awareness allows STIs to spread with new partners or lead to some heath issues.
Although usually asymptomatic, there can be a range of symptoms in men and women, and they usually will happen 5-28 days after getting infected. These symptoms can vary a bit between men and women.
In women, symptoms can include:
? Yellow-green or gray discharge
? Vaginal odor
? Painful Urination
? Itching, burning, and soreness of the vagina/vulva
? Causing vaginitis
Men are usually asymptomatic, but can display side effects such as:
? Itching and/or irritation inside the penis
? Burning after urination or ejaculation
? Penis may have Discharge
Trichomoniasis may also increase the risk of getting or spreading other STIs. Additionally, trichomoniasis has a chance to lead to pregnancy complications, including preterm deliveries and low birth weight.
Unfortunately, it is difficult to diagnose trichomoniasis from symptoms alone. A visit to your health care provider that includes both an examine and your symptoms is necessary. But the only way to know for sure is to have a lab test to diagnose trichomoniasis after having a swab done of the discharge.
Treatment, however, is relatively simple. An oral medication can be prescribed by a doctor, which even pregnant women can take. It is important to discuss with your sexual partner(s) if you have been diagnosed with a STI so that all parties may follow the necessary treatment protocol. If you have had trichomoniasis previously, it is possible to catch it again, and about 1 in 5 people get infected again within 3 months of treatment.
Safer Sex Practices are helpful in lowering your chances of transmitting or getting a STI. If you are going to have vaginal or anal sex or share sex toys, use a condom. If having oral sex, use a dam. And reading the instructions for proper usage for both condoms and dams is necessary to help reduce user error. Another great aid in prevention is communication! Talk to your sexual partners about testing and their safer sex practices. But we all know that nothing is perfect. So, the best method of staying knowledgeable about your sexual health is regular testing after new sexual partners.
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