What is Trichomoniasis or ("trick")?

The organism that causes this STD is a protozoa (a one-celled animal). It is called Trichomonas vaginalis. This organism causes an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the vagina and of the urethra in both males and females. This is a common STD for the ages of 16 to 30.

Symptoms

Symptoms in females include a yellow vaginal discharge with a strong nasty odor, and severe itching in the vagina. Males can have it with no symptoms at all, although the organism does live in the urethra and prostate gland. Diagnosis is made microscopically by identification of the parasite on a "wet-mount" slide that your health care provider prepares from vaginal discharge. This test does not hurt and you don't have to wait for the results of the test for days. You will know as soon as the slide is examined under the microscope. This protozoa can also be cultured.

Incubation Period

4 to 20 days. Average 7 days.

Treatment

This STD can be treated and cured by a strong drug that kills parasites. You and your sexual partner(s) MUST both be treated at the same time so you do not get reinfected. The drug of choice is a pill called Flagyl or metronidazole - it's generic name. You can NOT have any alcohol during treatment with this drug. That also includes the period of 24 to 48 hours after treatment or you will have severe vomiting, among other nasty symptoms. If you have more than one sexual partner, abstinence during treatment and for one week after completing the Flagyl is recommended. Using condoms will prevent Trichomoniasis.

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