Trichomoniasis
Updated:Trichomoniasis, often called "trich" (pronounced "trick"), is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a microscopic parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. This infection primarily affects the vagina in women and the urethra in men. It's one of the most common curable STIs, but many people don't know they have it because symptoms can be mild or nonexistent.
Additional Information
Trichomoniasis is spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, oral, and anal sex. Symptoms, when present, may include itching, burning, redness or soreness of the genitals, discomfort with urination, and a thin discharge with an unusual smell. However, about 70% of infected people do not show any symptoms.
The infection can be easily diagnosed through a lab test and treated with a single dose of antibiotics. It's important to note that trichomoniasis can increase the risk of getting or spreading other STIs, including HIV. Regular STI testing and practicing safe sex are crucial for prevention.
Examples
After experiencing unusual discharge, Sarah visited her doctor and was diagnosed with trichomoniasis. She and her partner were both treated with antibiotics.
During a routine STI screening, John tested positive for trichomoniasis despite having no symptoms. This reinforced the importance of regular testing for sexually active individuals.