Busting Common Myths About Trichomoniasis
Busting Common Myths About Trichomoniasis
Despite popular belief, Trichomoniasis is one of the more common sexually transmitted infections. According to Dr. Ina Park of the Department of Family and Community Medicine at San Francisco University, the STD Trichomoniasis is more common than both Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. As a result, you’d expect it to be familiar amongst sexually active individuals. However, the truth is quite the opposite. Only 1 in 5 women are aware of its existence.
So, what is Trichomoniasis, exactly? And is Trichomoniasis curable? Caused by an infection from Trichomonas Vaginalis (a protozoan parasite), this STI is a common and easily curable STD. However, because it often doesn’t present any symptoms, many of those affected by Trichomoniasis are unaware. This can be problematic as this STD can cause a slew of negative effects if left untreated, including a higher risk of HIV infection and fertility issues. Luckily, regular STI testing at home can help clear up any worries. And should you discover that you are infected, Trichomoniasis treatment is simple and convenient.
In this blog, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about this STI, including Trichomoniasis causes, Trichomoniasis medication, testing, and some of the most common myths about Trichomoniasis.
What are The Symptoms of Trichomoniasis in Women?
According to Women’s Health, Trichomoniasis is much more common in women than men with more than 2 million sufferers between the ages of 14 and 49. And while it doesn’t always present noticeable symptoms, it’s important to know what to look for in case of infection. The following are the most common symptoms of Trichomoniasis in women:
- Genital itching
- Burning or irritation of the genitals
- Genital soreness or redness
- Discomfort during urination
- Trichomoniasis discharge that is either white, green, or yellow
- Foul smelling vaginal odor
In terms of Trichomoniasis symptoms in men, there aren’t as many to deal with, sometimes making it more of a challenge to detect. These symptoms include:
- Itching or irritation in the penis
- Burning after urination or ejaculation
- Trichomoniasis discharge from the penis
Top Myths About Trichomoniasis
As is the case with many STDs and STIs, there is a lot of misinformation out there about Trichomoniasis. In an attempt to dispel rumors and keep you informed on all things STD and and STI testing at home related – we’ll discuss some of the more common myths below, along with the facts.
Trichomoniasis is Rare
As we mentioned prior, Trichomoniasis is a common disease. In fact, Pain Assist says it is the MOST common, affecting more than 200 million people annually around the globe. Luckily, the Trichomoniasis medication called Metrondazole is highly effective in curing the disease entirely.
Condoms Eliminate the Threat of Trichomoniasis Transmission
Many people tend to assume that condoms are an end-all solution for the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases and infections. However, as one of the more popular myths about Trichomoniasis, we can tell you that this is simply not true. That’s not to say condoms are not helpful as they are highly effective in preventing the spread of syphilis, HIV, hepatitis, and chlamydia. While condoms can indeed also prevent the spread of Trichomoniasis through sexual contact, the disease can be acquired through other means including sharing a contaminated towel.
Antibiotic-Resistance Doesn’t Occur
Practicing safe sex, proper hygiene, and participating in regular STD testing are the only ways to ensure you don’t acquire a nasty disease like Trichomoniasis. And it’s important that you aren’t careless with your sexual health, especially when you consider that continued use of Trichomoniasis medication can result in resistance. In turn, it will be much more difficult to receive effective treatment. Once a patient completes their antibiotics, it is vital that they visit the doctor to assess the progress of the disease.
Additional STD Tests are Not Necessary Upon Diagnosis
Whether you’re feeling ill or not, discovering you have Trichomoniasis may not always be the complete answer to your health problems. Many times, sufferers will stop at a positive Trich test, however, a thorough STD panel is ideal to discover whether that’s the only issue. Furthermore, since Trich increases the risk of HIV and AIDS, more exhaustive testing in those diagnosed with Trichomoniasis is crucial and potentially life-saving.
I’ll Know I have Trichomoniasis Right Away
As mentioned in the beginning of this blog, those with Trichomoniasis do not always experience any physical or otherwise obvious symptoms. In fact, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention explains that 70% of people infected with Trich don’t have any signs or symptoms. If you’re infected with the disease unknowingly and you go untested, you will continue to spread the infection to your partner(s). Luckily, our convenient STI test delivery makes it easy to take care of your sexual health while protecting the ones you care about.
Get Your Trichomoniasis Test Today
At 247Labkit, we understand the importance of maintaining your sexual health. That’s why we make it easy to gain access to a comprehensive, affordable STI home screening kit (247Labkit). Once you’ve completed the testing and send it back, you’ll get your results within 48 hours of it being received. For more information, read on about our Trichomoniasis test today.