Symptoms of Trichomoniasis: Early Signs and Transmission

Recognizing Trichomoniasis Symptoms and Common Causes

Trichomoniasis, or "trich," is one of the most common and curable sexually transmitted infections (STIs), yet it often goes unnoticed. This infection, caused by a parasite, is easily treatable with antibiotics, but symptoms can be so subtle that most people are unaware they even have it. While some may experience symptoms like itching or an unusual discharge, many show no signs.

Understanding trichomoniasis symptoms can be crucial for anyone sexually active, as this infection can spread through vaginal, oral, or anal contact. Spotting the early signs or getting tested is key to catching trich before it becomes a bigger problem.

In this blog, we'll walk you through the early symptoms, how to recognise them, and the common ways trich can spread. By reading on, you'll gain the knowledge to take control of your sexual health—stay informed, get tested, and protect yourself and others.

What is Trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis, often called "trich," is a common and curable sexually transmitted infection (STI) that affects millions globally. But what is trichomoniasis, and why does it often go unnoticed? Trichomoniasis is caused by a single-celled parasite named Trichomonas vaginalis, which spreads through sexual contact via semen and vaginal fluids. 

Surprisingly, most people infected with trich show no symptoms, making it easy to transmit unknowingly. Anyone sexually active can get trichomoniasis, though it is more prevalent among women, especially older women and African American women. If left untreated, trichomoniasis can increase the risk of contracting other STIs, including HIV.

However, trichomoniasis is easily curable with antibiotics. Even without symptoms, recognising the importance of testing can help reduce the risk of spreading trich and protect your long-term health.

What Causes Trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is caused by a single-cell protozoan parasite, Trichomonas vaginalis. This is mainly sexually transmitted, as sexual contact is required for the parasite to move from one person to the other.

A person who is infected with Trichomonas vaginalis can easily acquire and transmit the parasite through some intimate ways like, penile-vaginal intercourse, vaginal and anal intercourse, oral sex, and genital touching. Casual contact in any form, like using the same utensils or sharing drinks, will not transmit the disease. 

Trichomonas is, therefore, not transmitted in any other ways except through sexual contact. Primarily the parasite is limited to the genitals, but the mouth and the anus and the hands may also be infected. In such instances, it is equally essential to be tested for the parasite.

What are the Trichomoniasis Symptoms in Men?

Trichomoniasis in men is often left undiagnosed because of the poor presentation of symptoms. Approximately only 30% of people show symptoms, and 70% of infected individuals are seemingly asymptomatic, which causes the disease to increase quickly. Males tend to notice these signs within 5 to 28 days post-exposure. 

Evaluating the signs of trichomoniasis in men is necessary to prevent more infection and other serious risks.

Common Trichomoniasis Symptoms in Men:

• Itching or irritation inside the penis
• Burning sensation during urination or after ejaculation
• Unusual discharge from the penis, including froth-like discharge
• Increased need to urinate frequently
• Pain during urination or sexual intercourse

Although trichomoniasis symptoms in men are rare, they can cause significant discomfort when they do occur. If you have any suspicious symptoms, you should contact a healthcare provider, as untreated infections can result in side effects. 

If proper treatment begins in the early stages, then it is easier to prevent STDs.

Diagnosis of Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is usually diagnosed via physical exams and laboratory tests. Doctors focus on discovering signs of the infection and any symptoms. Since trichomoniasis in men develops without obvious symptoms, precise diagnosis is significant to prevent further transmission.

Steps of Diagnosing Trichomoniasis:

1. Physical Exam

• A detailed genital exam is done to identify visible signs of infection.
• For individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB), a pelvic exam may reveal a "strawberry cervix," a common indication of trichomoniasis.

2. Lab Tests

• Diagonists collect a sample of vaginal or penile discharge using a cotton swab.
• The sample is examined under a microscope for trichomonads, the parasites causing trichomoniasis.
• The sample may be sent to a lab for advanced testing if no parasites are visible.

In some cases, if your sexual partner has been diagnosed with trichomoniasis and you've had contact, a healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics without a physical exam. 

Moreover, in this case, testing for other STIs is also suggested alongside diagnosing trichomoniasis symptoms in men or women. 
Treatment of Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis treatment effectively involves oral antibiotics that target the parasite responsible for the infection. These medications are safe during pregnancy and work well for both men and women. Completing the prescribed course is crucial to fully eliminating the infection and avoiding reinfection.

Common Treatment Options

1. Single-dose Treatment (megadose)

• A one-time large dose of antibiotics like metronidazole (Flagyl), tinidazole (Tindamax), or secnidazole (Solosec).

2. Multiple Doses

• For some, lower doses of metronidazole or tinidazole are taken twice daily for seven days.
• Continue the full course, even if symptoms improve, to ensure complete recovery.

3. Additional Tips for Recovery

• Avoid Alcohol: Drinking during or shortly after treatment can cause severe nausea and vomiting.
• Wait 24 hours after metronidazole, 48 hours after secnidazole, and 72 hours after tinidazole.
• Follow-up Check-up: Check in with your doctor three months after the treatment to ensure the infection is cured.

Trichomoniasis in men may be harder to detect due to its often asymptomatic nature, but the same treatments are effective. Recognising and treating trichomoniasis symptoms in men and women promptly can help break the cycle of transmission and promote long-term sexual health.

How to Prevent Trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis in men and women spreads through sexual contact, often before symptoms even appear, so prevention requires awareness and proactive measures. Mentioned below are some tips for preventing Trichomoniasis:

• Use Latex Condoms: Trichomoniasis can spread through genital contact, so it's essential to put the condom on before any sexual contact occurs.
• Avoid Douching: Douching impacts the natural balance of vaginal bacteria. Hence, avoid it during your treatment.
• Communicate Openly: Communicating about sexual history and STI risks can help make decisions about protection and prevention.
• Refrain from Sex Post-treatment: It is important to avoid sexual activity for 7–10 days after completing treatment to reduce the risk of reinfection.

Adopting these preventive measures can significantly reduce the chances of contracting or spreading trichomoniasis. Understanding trichomoniasis symptoms in men and women, even when subtle or absent, is vital to protecting sexual health. Trichomoniasis is one of the most common yet easily treatable sexually transmitted infections. 

With the support of comprehensive health insurance plans like Star Health Insurance, managing such medical concerns becomes even more accessible and stress-free. Prioritise your health—knowledge and timely action are vital to staying protected.