Both men and women are affected by trichomoniasis.The symptoms of the disease are more easily identifiable in women than in men.trichomonas vaginalis is sometimes referred to as "trich" in women.A health care provider can only diagnose trichomoniasis by running tests and not by symptoms alone.
Step 1: Take care of your vaginal discharge.
Vaginal discharge is normal for most women and can range from clear to white.The discharge will be greenish-yellow and frothy.A strong smell is also a sign of discharge.Most of the time, trichomoniasis is spread through vaginal discharge.Non-sexual transmission can occur from other items like douche nozzles.The parasites only last for 24 hours outside of the body.
Step 2: There are abnormal genital symptoms.
Some infections can cause redness, burning and itching at the genitals.It's possible that these symptoms are an indication of an STD.There are irritations within the vaginal canal.Vaginal irritation can be normal if it lasts for a few days or gets better after treatment.If irritation persists or gets worse, it's best to talk to your doctor about it and get it diagnosed and treated.
Step 3: Do not ignore sexual intercourse or urination.
Intercourse can be uncomfortable because of inflammation and soreness in the genitals.If you experience any of the symptoms, you should see a physician and not have sex until you have been tested for STDs.Don't have sex until you've been tested and cleared.If you suspect you have an STD, you should inform your sexual partner and encourage them to get tested and treated.Some clinics will give your partners a contact slip that will let them know you have been exposed to a sexually transmitted disease.It won't have your name on it and may not tell them what the problem is.
Step 4: Know when you are at risk of getting STDs.
There is always a risk of getting an STD with any sexual activity.Knowing about situations in which you are more likely to get an STD can help you and your health care professional decide if you should get tested.If you have had sex with a new partner, you will probably need to be tested.You or your partner have had sex without a condom.Your partner has a sexually transmitted disease.There is a chance you are pregnant or planning to be pregnant.Your doctor or nurse will notice an abnormal vaginal discharge.
Step 5: Allow your doctor to take cell samples from your vagina.
Vaginal cell tissue or discharge from your vagina will be collected by your doctor or health care provider.The cotton tip might look like a plastic loop.The tool is wiped over parts of the body that could be used to spread an STD.This is usually painless and a bit uncomfortable.Your doctor may be able to examine the sample under a microscope and give you the results right away.You may have to wait up to 7 days for your results.If you have an STD, be sure to avoid sex during the waiting period so you don't spread it.They don't test for trichomoniasis.Ask for a specific test.
Step 6: If you have trichomoniasis, you should take antibiotics from your doctor.
Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics if your test comes back positive.Before your tests come in, your doctor might prescribe medication to you.The doctor will most likely prescribe you an oral antibiotic calledFlagyl which stops the growth ofbacteria and parasites.The side effects include dizziness, headaches, nausea, stomach pain, loss of appetite, and dry mouth.It can cause your urine to be darker in color.Inform your doctor if you are pregnant.Metronidazole is safe for pregnant women.Do not drink alcohol while taking antibiotics.If your side effects persist or get worse, you should contact your doctor.If you experience seizures, numbness or tingling in your hands and feet, or mood or mental changes, tell your doctor immediately.Many women with trichomoniasis also have vaginosis.Antibiotics are used to treat vaginosis as well.
Step 7: Take care of your sexual health.
Even if you don't think you have any STDs, you should always get a checkup from your doctor or health care professional.Only a small percentage of people with trichomoniasis show signs of infections.The other 85% never show any symptoms.If left unaddressed, trichomoniasis can increase your chances of getting HIV or transmit it to your sexual partners.Premature birth can be caused by Trichomoniasis in pregnant women.
Step 8: Practice safe sex.
If you don't have a mutually monogamous relationship with an individual free of STDs, you should always use a latex condom.Condoms can be used when engaging in oral, anal, and vaginal sex.Sharing sex toys is not a good idea.If you share them, wash them or cover them with a new condom.
Step 9: If you have any sexual partners, alert them.
If you have had sex with someone who has not used a condom, you should tell them so they can be tested and treated.Some clinics will give your partners a contact slip that will let them know you have been exposed to a sexually transmitted disease.It won't tell them what the infection is but will urge them to get tested.