What is trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is a very common sexually transmitted infection , caused by the protozoan parasite known as Trichomonas vaginalis.

The symptoms of STDs   can be very diverse, and most men and women who have them are unaware that they are infected.

STIs such as trichomoniasis are considered curable. In the United States, an estimated 3.7 million people are infected, yet only about 30 percent of them experience any symptoms. It is more common in women than in men, with younger women more susceptible.

A person infected with trichomoniasis can transmit the parasite to another person through sexual intercourse . In women, the most common areas infected are the vulva, vagina or urethra.

On the other hand, in the case of men, it is more common for the urethra to become infected. During sex, the parasite is transmitted from the penis to the vagina or vice versa, although it is possible that it can be transmitted from one vagina to another. It is not common for a parasite to damage other areas of the body such as the hands, anus or mouth.

It is not known exactly why some people have symptoms while others do not, although it probably depends on factors such as age or general health.

Even though some infected people do not experience any symptoms, they can still transmit the infection to healthy people.

What are the symptoms of trichomoniasis?

• About 70 percent of people with trichomoniasis have no symptoms or signs.
• When this disease causes symptoms, they can vary from mild irritation to severe inflammation.
• There are people who present symptoms within a period of 5 to 28 days after having contracted the infection, while others present them later and they may appear and disappear.
• Men who are infected may experience irritation or itching on the inside of the penis, burning after ejaculating or urinating, and may also have some type of discharge from the penis or burning in the testicles. 
• Women who have this disease may feel itching, redness, pain or burning in the genital area, they may also feel discomfort when urinating or secrete an abnormal vaginal discharge with an abnormal odor, which may be white, yellowish, greenish or transparent.

If you want to know more about the diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases such as trichomoniasis , call and schedule an appointment with our specialists. Use contraceptives and condoms to avoid STDs.