Trichomoniasis, which is also called as trich by common people is a disease which is sexually transmitted. This disease is caused by a parasite known as Trichomonas vaginalis. Trichomoniasis is one of the most common infections, which is mostly seen in older women. The good thing is that this infection is curable with right medication.
As such the problem does not show any symptom, but if left untreated for a prolong period of time then the symptoms become prominent. In most of the cases people relate the symptoms of this infection with the symptoms of UTI i.e. urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of Trichomoniasis
There is a very common misconception that only women are prone to develop Trichomoniasis, but the fact is that both men and women are equally prone to develop this problem. However, the symptoms experienced by men and women are different. Some of the common symptoms of Trichomoniasis are: Painful urination and irritation or dryness near the genitals.
Symptoms in Men
- Extreme pain post ejaculating
- Pain or burning sensation during urination
Symptoms in Women
- Discharge of infected women is of white, green or yellowish color
- Irritation and swelling in the genital region
- Bleeding when not in periods
Like with other sexually transmitted diseases, condoms do provide some protection against the Trichomonas parasite as well. This infection is often present in combination with other infections. The infected parasite moved from one body to another through unprotected sex i.e. it passes from vagina to penis or vice versa. In some rare scenarios, it can also pass from one vagina to another or from an infected mother to the new born at the time of delivery. Some of the common sources of transmitting the infection are:
- Use of same sex toys
- Contact with vaginal lubrication or discharge
- Contact with menstrual blood
- Semen
Typically, only the genital parts that are prone to infection; whereas the other body parts like the anus or the mouth is not affected by this parasite.
When to Test?
The growth phase of parasite causing trich last from five to twenty eight days, it is during this time that the infection starts to develop and show symptoms. This is a usually span but it may differ from person to person depending on the health condition. During the growth phase the parasite is easily spread around the genitals of patient. There are high possibilities that test may show negative results if done before the growth phase is complete. Hence, it is always advised to opt for the test only after twenty eight days; immediately after the test report show presence of trich parasite treatment is started for the patient.
Can Trichomoniasis Be Detected In A Urine Test?
Can a urine test be used for diagnosing trichomoniasis? It is very difficult to diagnose trich infection solely on the basis of symptoms because the symptoms are not very prominent and closely resembles the symptoms of UTI i.e., urinary tract infection. In most of the cases people feel they have UTI and take medication for the same, but it is only after the test that they come to know about trichomoniasis infection. The interesting aspect of trich parasite is that if it left untreated then the parasite can live in the body of the patient for months or even years. For diagnosing trichomoniasis, pelvic exam of discharge is done for women and urine test is done for men.
However, urine test is considered as one of the most effective ways to identify trichomoniasis in both men as well as women. Other than urine test, investigation of women wet mount/wet preparation also helps in identifying the problem when examined under a microscope. The sample of first urine discharge of the day is considered best for the test because this concentrated urine has good amount of parasite.
As discussed above the problem is very common and can be cured, but still it is very important that the problem is identified on time for better treatment. Delay in treatment can make things complicated.
Also Read:
- Can Trichomoniasis Cause Lower Abdominal Pain?
- Can You Get Trichomoniasis Without Being Sexually Active?
- How Do You Contract Trichomoniasis?
- Can Trichomoniasis be Cured?
- Is Trichomoniasis Always Sexually Transmitted?
- Can Trichomoniasis Lead To Infertility?
- What Are The Long-Term Effects Of Trichomoniasis?
