Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis (also known as trichomonas vaginalis or 'TV') is categorised as a parasitic sexually transmitted infection (STI). This STI is mostly common amongst young, sexually active women; however, men can also become infected by trichomoniasis. This infection is caused by trichomonas vaginalis; a protozoan parasite and can be cured by taking a course of antibiotics, such as Metronidazole. Trichomoniasis is a highly common STI in the UK, in fact it is estimated that there are approximately 7.4 million new cases every year in both women and men.

Trichomoniasis can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms don't normally surface until about a month after becoming infected. Half of all men and women infected with trichomoniasis don't have any symptoms at all. This is particularly the case for men with trichomoniasis. Symptoms can also be very similar to those related to other STIs. Therefore, it is recommended that you talk to a doctor as soon as you begin to suspect that you have trichomoniasis or any STI (STD) for that matter.

Trichomoniasis (trichomonas vaginalis) is a sexually transmitted disease, and as such is passed on during sexual activity if one partner is infected and protection is not used. The protozoan (tiny parasite) that causes the infection can live in either the urethra or vagina and is small enough to pass on to another individual easily during unprotected intercourse from the urethral or vaginal tissues.

Though it is very rare, there is a small possibility that sharing a hot bath or moist towels with a person who is infected could transmit the infection. This is also the case when sharing wet objects, such as sex toys.

The trichomonas infection often does not produce any symptoms for either men or women, which is why experts recommend that anyone who has had unprotected sex should take an STI test.

Men, if they do experience symptoms, will likely notice:

• A white discharge from the penis
• Increased urge to urinate
• Some pain will likely accompany urination or ejaculation
• Redness and swelling at the head of the penis or foreskin
• Soreness and itching in and around the penis

Women's symptoms could include:

• Soreness, inflammation or itching at the vagina
• Pain during sexual intercourse, while urinating and in the general groin area
• Changes to normal discharge, such as in colour (yellow or green), consistency and smell
• Itching around the thighs.
• Lower abdomen pain, although this is rare

The trichomonas infection can be cleared up completely with a course of antibiotics. Metronidazole is usually the medication of choice, as it is fast and effective. It can be taken either as a one-off high dosage or over a week in the form of a series of low dose tablets. After this course of treatment the infection should be completely cured. Many experts advise taking a second STI test two weeks after a course of trichomonas vaginalis treatment to ensure the infection has been eradicated.

As well as being able to effectively treat trichomoniasis, Metronidazole can reduce the risk of infertility and reduce the risk of premature birth. This medication can also significantly reduce the risk of other STIs developing as a result of leaving trichomoniasis untreated and can completely eradicate any feeling of discomfort caused by this condition.

Listed below are some methods that can be followed to effectively prevent trichomoniasis:

• Using a condom during all sexual encounters can significantly decrease the likelihood of becoming infected with trichomoniasis.
• Decreasing the number of sexual partners you have will also make a difference.
• If you have noticed any possible symptoms of trichomoniasis you should avoid sexual contact and talk to a doctor or your local GP.
• Sharing of sex toys should be avoided. If they are use they should be cleaned thoroughly and covered with a condom.
• Seeking help from a sexual health clinic or GUM clinic can increase trichomoniasis awareness, particularly with regards to how it is spread.
• Ordering a STI home test kit can also be helpful.

Trichomoniasis (trichomonas vaginalis) is a highly common STI amongst men and women in the UK. Taking an effective antibiotic treatment can successfully treat this infection. The treatment we have available to cure trichomoniasis is called Metronidazole. This high dosage prescription medication works quickly and effectively to treat sexually transmitted infections, including trichomoniasis. You can buy Metronidazole 400mg tablets at OnlineClinic after filling out a simple online consultation form. This can be done for free with no obligation. To learn more about this treatment, visit our Metronidazole product page.