Causes of Trichomoniasis Infection
Trichomoniasis is a disease caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis, which is about 0.1 mm in size. It has a stronger infectious power than other sexually transmitted diseases and can often be contracted through underwear, towels, toilets, and bathrooms.
Characteristics of Trichomoniasis Infection
- The incubation period ranges from 4 days to 1 month.
- It affects not only young people but also a wide range of middle-aged and older people.
- Primarily, it is transmitted through sexual intercourse, but Trichomonas is very sensitive to drying while being resistant in water. Therefore, in some cases, it can be contracted from toilet seats or bathtubs. Thus, even women who have not experienced sexual intercourse can rarely be infected.
- In men, it often lurks in the urethra or prostate and can cause repeated infections between men and women (ping-pong infection).
- Among sexually transmitted diseases, it has a high probability of causing ping-pong infections, so if you are diagnosed, be sure to inform your partner and receive treatment simultaneously.
- Those infected with Trichomonas have an increased risk of HIV infection.
Symptoms in Men
- In most cases, there are no symptoms (95% are asymptomatic).
- Rarely, it can cause symptoms of urethritis, prostatitis, epididymitis, or balanoposthitis.
Symptoms in Women
- Brown, frothy discharge with a bad odor
- Urinary disorders
- Itching and irritation of the vagina
- If left untreated, it can lead to co-infection with general bacteria and other STDs
- Sometimes there are no symptoms
Diagnosis of Trichomoniasis Infection
- Men: Urine test (confirmation of Trichomonas parasites or nucleic acid amplification)
- Women: Microscopic examination of vaginal discharge (Trichomonas parasites or nucleic acid amplification)
Treatment Method for Trichomoniasis Infection
- Typically, taking an anti-protozoal drug (Metronidazole) for 10 days will result in a complete cure.
- Additionally, in women, combining anti-protozoal vaginal agents for about a week is also a common treatment method.
