The truth about Trichomoniasis

It’s the STI unheard of by most people. Yet, if left untreated, Trichomoniasis can lead to health complications for both men and women. So why is nobody talking about it? Here we answer some commonly asked questions about this STI.

Also referred to as Trichomonas or ‘Trich’, this sexually transmitted infection is passed on during intercourse. Since it is not routinely tested for by the NHS, most people are unaware of it or deem it less important than other well-known STIs. Statistics from the World Health Organisation estimate that in 2016, 156 million new cases of Trichomoniasis were found in men and women.

‘Will Trichomoniasis go away on its own?’

No, but the good news is that it can be cured. To treat the infection, you will need to take a course of antibiotics. Your Better2Know doctor can provide you with a prescription. During this time, you should refrain from sexual activity and make sure that your partners are also tested and treated.

‘I hate giving blood! Does this mean I won’t be able to get tested?’

No, don’t worry. Trichomonas is tested for with a simple urine sample, or women can choose to have a swab sample if they prefer.

‘I haven’t got any symptoms and I’ve never had an STI. Am I safe?’

Around 70% of people with Trichomonas will not show any symptoms. If you’ve had unprotected sex, there is a risk that you may have caught it, just like any other STI. We encourage anyone who may have been exposed to get tested.

‘I’ve had Trichomoniasis before, does that mean I will never get it again?’

Unfortunately, no. Alike Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea, you can get re-infected with Trichomonas through unprotected sex. Use condoms and get tested regularly to avoid putting yourself and your health at risk in the future.

‘I am a woman who only sleeps with women. Do I still need to get tested?’

The infection can be transmitted between women who sleep with women (WSW). Better2Know’s medical team has designed three screens for WSW, all of which test for Trichomonas.

‘If I don’t get tested for Trichomoniasis, what are the risks?’

The infection can lead to future health consequences such as reduced fertility in both men and women. The risk of spreading or contracting other STIs including HIV is increased if you have Trichomonas.

‘I’m planning to have a baby soon. Should I get tested?’

We encourage anyone who is planning pregnancy to get tested for all STIs. An untreated infection can lead to increased risk of preterm birth or low birth weight for babies.

‘I want to test for Trichomonas and other STIs. Which test should I book?’

Better2Know’s comprehensive Platinum Screen tests for eleven STIs including Trichomonas. If you have any itching, pain or unusual discharge, we would suggest our Comfort Screen which tests for seven infections with only a urine sample.

Better2Know can help you get tested for Trichomoniasis today. Our Sexual Health Advisors are ready to take your call now.

Sources

[1] CDC

[2] WHO

[3] Science News