Quick Answer
Trichomoniasis primarily affects the genital area in both men and women. In women, it infects the vagina and urethra. In men, it infects the urethra and prostate. Rarely, trichomoniasis can infect other parts of the body, such as the mouth, throat, or lungs. But this is uncommon.
What is Trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. It is sometimes referred to as “trich”.
This STI is very common, with an estimated 3.7 million cases occurring each year in the United States. However, only about 30% of those infected show symptoms of trichomoniasis.
The Trichomonas vaginalis parasite is passed from person to person during sexual activity – usually through penis-to-vagina intercourse. However, it can also spread through vulva-to-vulva contact and from sharing sex toys.
Using condoms correctly every time you have sex can help prevent the spread of trichomoniasis. But this STI can still pass between partners even when condoms are used.
What Parts of the Body are Affected?
In women, trichomoniasis primarily infects the:
– Vagina
– Urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder)
– Cervix (opening of the uterus)
In men, trichomoniasis mainly infects the:
– Urethra
– Prostate gland
More rarely, trichomoniasis can infect other moist mucous membranes of the body such as:
– Mouth
– Throat
– Lungs
But infection in sites other than the genital tract is uncommon.
When trichomoniasis spreads to parts of the body beyond the reproductive system, it is usually in people with a weakened immune system. For example, people with HIV/AIDS or cancer.
Symptoms in Women
Trichomoniasis symptoms can develop within 5 to 28 days after contact with an infected partner. But sometimes there are no symptoms at all.
When present, trichomoniasis symptoms in women may include:
| Itching, burning, redness or soreness of the genitals |
| Discomfort with urination |
| Thin vaginal discharge that can be clear, white, yellowish, or greenish |
| Fishy odor coming from the vagina |
| Light vaginal bleeding or spotting |
Some women with trichomoniasis also experience pain during sex.
Symptoms in Men
Up to 50% of infected men do not show any signs or symptoms of trichomoniasis. When present, symptoms in men may include:
| Thin, white discharge from the penis |
| Burning after urination or ejaculation |
| Itching or irritation inside the penis |
| Soreness and swelling of the penis |
Some men with trichomoniasis experience no symptoms for several weeks or months before the infection suddenly becomes symptomatic.
Complications
Without treatment, trichomoniasis can persist for months or even years. Having trichomoniasis for a long time, especially when symptoms persist, can cause complications.
Possible complications include:
– Increased risk of getting or spreading HIV
– Chronic pelvic pain
– Infertility
– Pregnancy complications like premature delivery
– Infection after hysterectomy surgery
Rarely, long-standing trichomoniasis infection that has spread to the liver, lungs, bones or brain can be fatal. Again, this type of severe infection is uncommon and typically only occurs in those with a weakened immune system.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Trichomoniasis is diagnosed by examining genital discharge under a microscope to view the parasites. Samples of vaginal fluid in women and urine in men can also be tested.
Trichomoniasis is treated and cured with prescription antiparasitic drugs, usually metronidazole or tinidazole. Sex partners should also be treated at the same time to prevent back-and-forth reinfection.
It’s important to finish all medications as directed. Treatment failure and recurrence of symptoms can occur in about 5-10% of cases.
Since having trichomoniasis once does not protect against future infections, safe sex practices remain important. Correct condom use, limiting sexual partners, and abstinence from sex during treatment can help prevent reinfection.
Conclusion
In summary, trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted disease that primarily infects the genital area. In women, trichomoniasis mainly affects the vagina, urethra, and cervix. In men, it mostly infects the urethra and prostate gland.
When left untreated, trichomoniasis can persist for years and lead to complications. But prescription antiparasitic medications can usually cure trichomoniasis infections when taken correctly. Using condoms and avoiding sex until treatment is complete helps prevent reinfection.