Trichomonas disease. Trichomoniasis: useful information for everyone. What drugs are used for treatment?
After the incubation period ends, that is, about a month after infection, the first symptoms of trichomoniasis can be detected in the patient. During the course of the disease, inflammatory processes can occur in an acute form, which is characterized by the identification of such signs as severe pain and profuse purulent-whitish discharge from the genitals.
Determination of clinical signs of the disease
How does trichomoniasis manifest during the primary stage of infection? In most cases, the infection initially proceeds torpidly, depriving the doctor of the opportunity to promptly identify the pathogen and determine its type. In addition, the patient himself may not detect the disease at all, but at the same time inflammatory processes are already beginning to form in the organs of the genitourinary system. A latent carrier of trichomoniasis can cause infection to their sexual partners.
In the acute stage of the disease, the following clinical symptoms are detected: discharge of unpleasant-smelling greenish mucus from the urethral canal, vagina or glans penis. How to identify Trichomonas at this stage? The intensity of the discharge can determine the degree of inflammation - they are the most common sign of trichomoniasis, which can be detected in 80% of those who seek medical help. Among women this statistical indicator is significantly higher, among the male part of infected people it is lower.
Gender differences in symptoms when identifying a pathogen
How to determine trichomoniasis in a woman? It is necessary to pay attention to the following manifestations of a bacterial infection discovered during a gynecological examination: redness of the surface of the genital organs, swelling of the perineum, mucous discharge from the vagina, the presence of erosive ulcers on the mucous surface of the genitals, foamy or watery discharge, with an unpleasant fishy odor (with colpitis). Trichomoniasis is often accompanied by a burning sensation during urination, itching and short-term pain in the groin.
How does Trichomonas manifest itself in men? Infection in men can be detected by the following symptoms: burning and sharp pain when urinating, dysuria, white or foamy discharge from the urethra, and possibly blood in the stool or urine.
Diagnostic methods for determining bacteria
The fundamental data in determining the type and diagnostic identification of a microorganism are the results of laboratory tests, for which various biological fluids and scrapings from epithelial tissue are taken from the patient for examination. How to detect Trichomonas using IRA, PCR or ELISA? For analysis, biomaterial is taken from women from the urethra, rectum or vagina. And in men - only from the urethra. A urine centrifuge test is very effective in identifying bacteria.
In medical practice, several methods for detecting a pathogen are described:
- The cultural method is characterized by high accuracy of detection of trichomonas, is effective, but requires a lot of time.
- Microscopic examination of native preparations - identification of the pathogen by immediate examination of the obtained smears under a microscope.
- Microscopic analysis - aimed at identifying the pathogen using specific staining of preparations.
- PCR is a fast method that is highly sensitive and helps to detect the DNA of the pathogen even if other diagnostic methods did not detect anything or could not determine the type of infection.
- Immunological studies - help to demonstrate labeled antibodies.
Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, therefore, before identifying trichomoniasis using any of them, be prepared for the fact that none of the tests will give a 100% accurate result.
Trichomoniasis– this disease is caused by a sexually transmitted infection, a protozoan bacterium trichomonas vaginalis, after infection, gradual inflammation of the genitourinary system begins.
The symptoms of this infection may be similar to those of other genitourinary infections. Often the human body is affected by several types of trichomonas, and is combined with other infections of the genitourinary system - and candidiasis.
If measures are taken to eliminate this infection, trichomoniasis in men and women can become chronic, which often leads to infertility in women, complications during pregnancy, as well as the appearance of unwanted pathologies in children.
Trichomoniasis is very widespread, and even thanks to the presence on the pharmaceutical market of a large number of drugs for the treatment of this infection, this infection is still the leader among those that can be sexually transmitted - according to WHO, every tenth inhabitant of the planet is a carrier of trichomonas.
Description of trichomoniasis
The causative agents of the infection, Trichomonas vaginalis, have special flagella that help them move actively; when microorganisms multiply, they occur by longitudinal division.
Trichomonas vaginalis – the causative agent of trichomoniasis
The size of trichomonas can range from 12 to 18 microns, and they do not need oxygen at all to survive.
The human reproductive system is not the only possible place for the existence of trichomonas - they can invade the circulatory system through the lymph nodes.
Trichomoniasis in men primarily infects the urethra, prostate, testicles along with the appendages, and seminal vesicles. Although usually the infection does not cause any particular discomfort or the appearance of any pronounced symptoms in men.
In women, trichomoniasis primarily infects the vagina (Trichomonas vaginalis) and the urethra.
Trichomoniasis in women is detected more often among the fairer sex for one simple reason - women visit medical institutions more often for preventive purposes, which makes it possible to identify the disease at an early stage.
In general, women aged 18 to 40 years are most susceptible to trichomoniasis.
Infectious agents can be destroyed by drying, as well as by heating above 45 degrees and exposure to UV rays.
Causes leading to infection with trichomoniasis
Trichomonas can only be transmitted through sexual contact, but in some cases, infection can occur through contact with personal hygiene items, such as a washcloth, sponge or towel.
Women are susceptible to infection with Trichomonas vaginalis through promiscuous sex life, abuse of alcohol and tobacco products, abortion, and poor personal hygiene.
Symptoms
When infected with trichomoniasis, different symptoms may appear, but in all carriers of the infection, the disease can manifest itself even after a couple of months - in most cases, the disease is detected due to problems in the human immune system.
Symptoms of trichomoniasis in women
Trichomonas in women can cause pronounced symptoms (see photo above), but generally the first manifestations of the presence of trichomonas can appear as early as 3 days after infection - the impact of the microorganism has a detrimental effect on the condition of the cervix, vagina and urethra.
When infected, trichomoniasis in women is manifested by the following symptoms:
- copious discharge that has an unpleasant odor, green or yellow color;
- Painful sensations may appear during sex;
- When urinating, there may be a burning sensation and pain, and there may be a frequent urge to empty the bladder;
- swelling forms on the vulva, itching and burning appears in the lower abdomen;
- some patients experience pain in different parts of the abdomen;
- small ulcers and abrasions may be found on the surface of the skin in the perineum, and the appearance of dermatitis is possible;
- During a physical examination, the gynecologist may detect swelling, which is also covered with strong foam, as well as small hemorrhages from the capillaries.
When menstruation occurs, the first signs of Trichomonas vaginalis begin to intensify, and if the necessary treatment is not carried out at this time, the disease becomes chronic - often this happens 7-8 weeks after infection.
Trichomoniasis in women in its advanced form also does not have pronounced symptoms, however, some women may experience dysuria (urinary discharge).
Symptoms in men
Trichomoniasis in men may not have obvious symptoms, but in some cases the following signs are observed:
- when urinating, a burning sensation and pain appear, sometimes there is slight pain;
- the appearance of a frequent urge to urinate, which is especially noticeable in the morning;
- often a small amount of mucus is released from the urethra;
- often after sex a man experiences itching and burning;
- In some men, the middle suture of the penis may become inflamed, and erosion of the mucous membrane above may also appear).
Even when symptoms appear that indicate the presence of infection, with trichomoniasis in men, they extremely rarely seek help from doctors, which in some cases leads to the following complications: narrowing of the urethra, damage to the kidneys and bladder, and the appearance of prostatitis.
The male body is very susceptible to infection by pathogenic microorganisms, but the symptoms of the disease are practically invisible.
Trichomoniasis in pregnant women
Many experts do not consider trichomoniasis a serious and dangerous infection that can negatively affect the condition of the fetus, but the presence of trichomonas during pregnancy is quite undesirable.
Trichomonas are not able to enter the fetus through the placenta, however, during the birth process, the fetus can pass near the infected birth canal, which increases the risk of infection of the child with Trichomonas.
In addition, trichomoniasis can lead to premature birth, which also reduces the possibility of a successful pregnancy.
The doctor may prescribe treatment, but not earlier than the 2nd trimester of pregnancy.
Diagnostics
During diagnosis, the doctor examines the patient, but it is impossible to obtain a final diagnosis only through clinical trials - there are a number of reasons for this:
- symptoms of trichomoniasis in women and men can be caused by various urogenital diseases and may simply be similar to trichomoniasis;
- pinpoint hemorrhages and foamy discharge, characteristic of the presence of trichomonas, are observed in only 12% of women.
For a more thorough diagnosis, it is necessary to conduct laboratory tests, among which the following can be noted:
- examination of a smear of mucus from the urethra under a microscope - a special solution is applied to a glass slide, after which a small amount of vaginal discharge is added to it, after which the substance is examined under a microscope. This method allows you to obtain an accuracy of 40-60% when making a diagnosis;
- immunological method;
- – the advantage of this method is the detection of infection in almost 100% of cases. Any biological material from the patient can be used for analysis: blood, saliva, urethral or vaginal smear. You can receive test results within a day.
Detection of trichomoniasis in men is more problematic - this is facilitated not only by relatively meager symptoms, but also by the vital activity of microorganisms in amoeboid form.
Treatment of trichomoniasis
Treatment of the disease does not take much time, but to achieve a positive result, a number of conditions must be met:
- the second partner must also undergo mandatory diagnostics and, if necessary, appropriate treatment;
- Sexual life in any form is prohibited until complete recovery is achieved;
- it is necessary to take specific antiprotozoal drugs that guarantee complete disposal of Trichomonas;
- if there are other genitourinary infections, their treatment is also required;
- During the course of treatment procedures, it is forbidden to drink alcohol, and a gentle diet is prescribed.
It is not advisable to independently treat trichomoniasis in women or men, since the necessary means for effective treatment are prescribed exclusively by the attending physician.
Currently, the following highly effective drugs are used to treat trichomoniasis in men and women:
- Metronidazole and its analogues: Trichopolum, Flagyl, Tinidazole;
- General therapy must be complemented by local treatment - this will achieve a positive result in a short time. Women are prescribed vaginal suppositories and gels, while men can use various creams ( Rosamet or Rozeks);
- if it is not possible to take medications orally, suppositories are prescribed Osarcid, which can have a detrimental effect on harmful microorganisms. In this case, it is necessary to use streptocide, which can relieve inflammation.
Treatment of chronic stage trichomoniasis does not differ from conventional treatment, however, if the infection has been present in the patient for quite a long time, then his immunity becomes more vulnerable, which requires additional intake of immunostimulants, vitamins and adaptogens.
During the treatment process, it is necessary to carefully monitor personal hygiene:
- for washing it is necessary to use antiseptic preparations;
- underwear must be changed every day;
- Individual personal hygiene products should be used for washing.
Upon completion of the treatment process, repeated collection of tests is necessary, which is carried out a month after the end of treatment - this allows you to ensure the absence of Trichomonas in the body.
It must be remembered that medications for the treatment of trichomoniasis in women and men cannot be combined with alcohol, as they can provoke the appearance of Antabuse-like syndrome - in order to avoid possible poisoning, you should refrain from drinking alcohol in any form.
If you notice symptoms of trichomoniasis in women or trichomoniasis in men, you should immediately visit a gynecologist, urologist or venereologist, but even with complete recovery, a person’s immunity remains weakened, which can provoke a new infection.
Preventive measures
For prevention, it is necessary to carefully follow a number of measures that will help avoid infection with various sexually transmitted infections:
- choose your partner wisely, avoid casual sexual intercourse, which can lead to infection with various infections;
- the first time you have sexual intercourse with a new partner, you should use a condom;
- observe the rules of personal hygiene;
- regularly visit a gynecologist or urologist, who is able to identify various infections in a timely manner;
- if unprotected sexual intercourse with a casual partner does occur, then you should treat the external genitalia with the drug Miramistin for 2 hours, which can reduce the risk of infection by 70% - for this you should inject 5 ml of the drug into the vagina, you can also douche with a solution of potassium permanganate in small quantity. Since this method does not provide a 100% guarantee against contracting STDs, it should not be abused.
Some questions about trichomoniasis
- Is it possible to have sexual intercourse while treating Trichomonas vaginalis? It is strictly forbidden to have an intimate life during treatment - until the results of treatment are obtained, there can be no talk of any sexual contact.
- Is there a chance of getting infected with Trichomonas through oral sex? Yes, the probability of infection in this case is quite high.
- Is the infection transmitted by kissing? No, the infection is not transmitted this way.
- Does Trichomonas cause bleeding? The chance of bleeding is minimal, but pinpoint microscopic hemorrhages may be present, which can be noticed immediately after sexual intercourse.
- Is it possible to get re-infected with Trichomonas? Of course, a weakened immune system is not able to fully counteract the fight against pathogenic microflora, which increases the risk of infection.
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Interesting
Trichomoniasis is the most common sexually transmitted disease. A large number of patients have a question: is it possible to cure trichomoniasis? Therapy for this disease is quite complex and can take several years.
Treatment time for the disease can take several years only if the symptoms were not detected in a timely manner. Therapy of the disease is significantly accelerated with the timely administration of appropriate medications. If a prolonged course of treatment is used, then there is no need to spend several years on it. Just completing one course will be enough. The disease is cured by taking antibiotics, which are characterized by the presence of a pronounced antibacterial effect.
If a person self-medicates, this will lead to an aggravation of the process, which will drag on for several years.
Trichomoniasis is treated only if the correct regimen is selected. If the most effective and powerful medications are taken haphazardly, this will not lead to the desired results.
Such therapy will cause the rapid proliferation of Trichomonas and the course of the disease over several years. In this case, it will not be possible to cure the disease the first time, since Trichomonas will lose sensitivity to antibacterial medications. This will significantly complicate the treatment of the disease.
If a patient says: I can’t cure trichomoniasis, then this indicates an incorrectly selected technique. The disease can be cured in 1 course only with an integrated approach. The treatment regimen should include several approaches. First of all, the patient needs to take antibiotics.
To ensure their maximum effect, it is necessary to use immunostimulants and physical therapy. A sick person must go on a diet. He needs to renounce any sexual relations. Patients are recommended to use local procedures with a localized effect.
It is possible to cure psoriasis quickly if the disease was noticed in the first year of its development. Every second woman who was diagnosed with the disease in a timely manner was cured.
Fighting bacterial trichomoniasis
Trichomonas are absorbers and carriers of a variety of bacteria. When this process occurs, bacterial trichomoniasis develops in women and men. How long does it take to treat such a disease? This directly depends on the timeliness of diagnosis of the pathology.
Trichomonas actively isolate STD pathogens from the effects of modern antibacterial drugs. That is why improper treatment of the infectious process can lead to the rapid release of secondary pathogens. Against this background, the appearance of a repeated inflammatory process in the genitourinary system may occur.
Some may experience a recurrence of the disease. Trichomoniasis can be cured only if it is correctly diagnosed. That is why appropriate microbiological studies must be carried out before and after treatment. These diagnostic methods make it possible to identify other pathogenic microorganisms and timely adjust the adopted treatment regimen. In this case, the individual characteristics of patients are taken into account. The dosage of medications often depends on them: 50 or 100 mg.
If a person’s trichomoniasis is cured quickly, this does not eliminate the possibility of recurrence of the infection. Repeated contact with the carrier will not allow the disease to be cured using the immune defense method.
A person may experience infection with new pathogens, which is explained by the inability of the human body to produce antibodies to Trichomonas.
As a result, the disease progresses in a chronic form. Is it possible or not to cure trichomoniasis in chronic form? With the right approach to this process, it is possible to overcome the pathological process.
Bacterial trichomoniasis is a more severe form and is characterized by rather long treatment. If you seek help from a qualified doctor, it is quite possible to eliminate the disease.
Innovative treatment methods
Most doctors consider trichomoniasis a curable disease only if innovative therapeutic methods are used.
There are not many modern methods of treating the disease. Despite this, they are characterized by a high level of efficiency. During the period of taking medications, it is necessary to remember that the drugs have a detrimental effect on the process of assimilation of alcohol by the body. When consuming alcoholic beverages and medications at the same time, the former do not neutralize toxins well.
If the patient does not adhere to this rule, this will lead to undesirable effects in the form of:
- poisoning;
- allergic reactions;
- toxic shock.
In accordance with medical statistics, it has been proven that medications of the nitroimidazoles group are characterized by insufficient effectiveness. That is why even if a long course is used, the disease remains uncured.
The decrease in sensitivity of genitourinary infections can be explained by several factors. For example, Trichomonas vaginalis may be resistant to the components of a drug such as Metronidazole.
If pathogens have a high level of resistance to a given drug, then it will be difficult to eradicate. In this case, to ensure the effectiveness of therapy, it is necessary to increase the concentration of the main toxic substances. They must be taken not only orally, but also used intravaginally or urethrally.
Treatment of trichomoniasis is a rather complex process. That is why a treatment regimen should be developed by a doctor only after the patient has undergone appropriate diagnostics.
Consequences and complications
With proper and timely treatment, a person’s complete recovery is observed. If irrational therapy is used, this can lead to male or female infertility. Some patients experienced problems conceiving a child after treatment for the disease. A fairly common consequence of irrational therapy for the fairer sex was miscarriage. In some cases, women experienced premature birth.
Trichomonas absorb some pathogenic microbes. However, they do not destroy them, which leads to the spread of the infectious process and difficulty in treatment. As a result, malignant neoplasms may occur.
The course of the disease negatively affects the performance of the human immune system. This leads to an increased chance of contracting other infections that are transmitted sexually.
If trichomoniasis is not treated in a timely manner, an inflammatory process in the urinary tract may occur. Most often, patients were diagnosed with pyelonephritis or cystitis.
More complications of trichomoniasis are diagnosed in women than in the stronger sex. The most commonly observed is endometritis - an inflammatory process on the mucous membranes of the uterus. Against the background of this disease, cervicitis can develop - inflammation in the cervix. A fairly common complication of the disease is adnexitis, which affects the ovaries. Patients may be diagnosed with salpingitis, an inflammatory process in the fallopian tubes.
In representatives of the stronger sex, the disease can be complicated by prostatitis, which is an inflammatory process in the prostate. Vesiculitis is diagnosed. With the development of this disease, the seminal vesicles are affected. Improper treatment of the disease can lead to epididymo-orchitis - a pathological process in the ovaries and its appendages.
Trichomoniasis is a fairly serious disease that requires the right approach to treatment. That is why patients are recommended to seek help from highly qualified doctors who, in the process of developing a treatment regimen, take into account the peculiarities of the course of the disease.
Trichomoniasis is a disease of the genitourinary system, the causative agent of which is the simplest anaerobic microorganism called Trichomonas vaginalis. This disease mainly affects women of reproductive age. Testing for Trichomonas in men will help determine the carrier of the disease, because in most cases they have no symptoms of the disease.
Diagnosis of trichomoniasis is based on determining the clinical signs of the disease and identifying pathogenic microorganisms in the patient’s smear, blood or urine. In order to confirm the presence of infection, several methods can be used, including Trichomonas PCR.
If trichomoniasis is suspected, both sexual partners should be tested.
What are Trichomonas
Some strains of Trichomonas do not cause unpleasant symptoms in their carrier, but after sexual transmission and a change of habitat they become pathogenic and contribute to the development of inflammatory processes.
Infection with trichomoniasis occurs through sexual contact, through vaginal or anal sexual contact. In rare cases, the disease can be transmitted through household contact. Factors contributing to infection include:
- Having a large number of sexual partners.
- Unprotected sexual intercourse with new partners.
- Presence of other sexually transmitted diseases.
- Disturbances in the functioning of the immune system.
- Malfunctions of the endocrine system.
After the disease is cured, the immunity remains rather weak, so re-infection is possible, in which the symptoms are not so pronounced.
In what cases is it necessary to get tested?
Many people are interested in what tests need to be taken to identify trichomoniasis and when to see a doctor. Diagnosis of trichomoniasis in women is carried out in the following cases:
- The presence of foamy discharge of a gray-yellow or greenish hue, with an unpleasant odor and an admixture of blood.
- Redness and itching in the vulva area.
- The appearance of mucopurulent plaque on the mucous membranes of the genital organs.
- Painful sensations during sexual intercourse.
- Pain in the lower abdomen.
- Frequent urination and pain accompanying this process.
- Enlarged inguinal lymph nodes.
Women need to be tested for trichomoniasis if they have chronic diseases of the genitourinary system, pathologies of pregnancy, cancer or infertility.
A man should be tested for Trichomonas if he has the following symptoms:
- Mucus discharge from the urethra.
- Frequent urination in the morning.
- Pain when urinating.
It is also necessary to make sure that there is no trichomoniasis in case of prostatitis, urethritis, epididymitis, erectile dysfunction or infertility.
Forms
There are three forms of the disease:
- Fresh trichomoniasis. It occurs immediately after infection and the incubation period has passed. It is characterized by vivid symptoms, redness and itching of the external genitalia, foamy discharge in women and painful urination in men.
- If the disease is not treated after a month, the symptoms of the disease weaken, the discharge turns creamy, and in men the signs of the disease completely disappear. After excessive sexual activity, colds or alcohol consumption, trichomoniasis worsens.
- Trichomonas carriage. Trichomonas are detected in the smear, although there are no obvious signs of infection. Most often, this form of the disease can be found in men.
Diagnostics
There are various methods for diagnosing the disease. In most patients, trichomoniasis is a mixed protozoal-bacterial inflammatory process. Trichomonas play a major role in this, since they can capture and reserve other pathogenic microorganisms. In addition, trichomoniasis causes tissue loosening, which makes it possible for bacteria and viruses to penetrate into the intercellular space and join the inflammatory process.
Trichomoniasis is an infectious disease that is sexually transmitted. Its causative agent is Trichomonas vaginalis. The most common diagnosis is vaginal trichomoniasis, which is observed in women of reproductive age. The disease is quite common, affecting approximately 17 million people every year. Almost half of patients infected with trichomoniasis have no symptoms of the disease.
The ways of infection with trichomoniasis, its symptoms and treatment are of interest to many people who are sexually active. They also often wonder how Trichomonas manifests itself in the body.
Trichomonas
Trichomonas are the simplest microorganisms that cause the disease trichomoniasis. Their size does not exceed 30 microns. Trichomonas move with the help of flagella, they are very mobile and reproduce by fission. Trichomonas are omnivores and have no sexual characteristics.
The following can live in the human body:
- Trichomonas vaginalis.
- Pentatrichomonashominis.
- Trichomonasthenas.
Note! Trichomonas vaginalis often becomes companions of other pathogenic organisms: gonococci, chlamydia, herpes and papilloma viruses, mycoplasma or yeast fungi.
They damage the epithelium, allowing other microbes to quickly enter the body, and protect them from attack by the immune system.
How is trichomoniasis transmitted?
Ways of contracting the disease trichomoniasis:
- Sexually. Infection with Trichomonas occurs during vaginal, oral or anal sex without using a condom. A healthy man, upon contact with a carrier, will acquire the disease in 70% of cases, while a woman, after sex with an infected partner, will acquire the disease in 100% of cases.
- By everyday means. You can become infected by using someone else's towels, washcloths or underwear. But the percentage of patients who acquired the disease in this way is small, since Trichomonas can live no more than two hours outside the human body. Women are more often infected due to the structure of their genital organs. Men rarely get the disease through contact.
- Intravaginal route. In 5% of cases, a child may become infected with trichomoniasis when it passes through the birth canal of an infected mother. Most often, girls get the disease; boys become infected in very rare cases.
Manifestations
The duration of the incubation period ranges from 2 to 48 days. On average it lasts about two weeks. Trichomonas can cause an inflammatory process, and their waste products negatively affect the body and impair the functioning of the immune system.
If no more than two months have passed since the microbe entered the body, trichomoniasis is considered fresh. Later it becomes chronic. The disease can be complicated.
There is also Trichomonas carriage, when these microorganisms live in the human genital tract. They are transmitted to a partner, but do not cause any unpleasant symptoms in the carrier himself.
Only in 10% of cases trichomoniasis occurs as a monoinfection. In the rest, its companions are mycoplasmas, gardanella, chlamydia, and fungi of the genus Candida.
Symptoms in women
In women, unlike men, trichomoniasis occurs much more often. For different forms of the disease, the signs may differ. Most often, the disease affects the vagina and urethra. Before menstruation, the symptoms of trichomoniasis are more intense.
Acute form
The acute (complicated) form is characterized by the following signs of trichomoniasis:
- Copious, foaming, acrid, foul-smelling discharge, yellow-greenish or white.
- Sometimes streaks of blood appear in the urine and leucorrhoea.
- Pain during sex.
- The mucous membrane loses its elasticity, causing ulcers and erosions.
- Itching in the vagina.
- Itching of the vulva, which sometimes extends to the inner thighs.
- Swelling and redness of the labia.
- Dermatitis on the inner thighs.
- Periodic aching pain in the lower abdomen.
Complications | What are the symptoms |
Bacterial vaginosis |
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Urethritis |
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Vulvovaginitis |
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Bartholinitis |
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Uterine involvement is rare. This is explained by the fact that the secretion of the cervical glands has an alkaline reaction, which has a detrimental effect on pathogenic microorganisms. But after abortion or childbirth, it can penetrate inside, causing endometritis.
Note! Also, in very rare cases, the infection penetrates the fallopian tubes and ovaries, causing inflammation, adhesions and cysts.
Subacute form of the disease
In this case, the disease proceeds without complications. The first symptoms of the disease:
- The discharge is yellow, foaming and has a bad odor.
- Mild itching and burning during urine output.
- Mild pain in the lower abdomen.
- Pain in the vagina during sex.
Torpid (asymptomatic) form
With this form of the disease, the incubation period lasts more than two months. The disease may appear after a malfunction of the immune system or in addition to other gynecological problems. A woman experiences foamy discharge and itching in the vagina. They are not so significant, so often ladies do not pay any attention to it.
Chronic form of the disease
If the disease is not treated, after two months it becomes chronic, the signs of which are:
- Discomfort during urination (in 4% of patients).
- Pain during sex (in 8% of patients).
The chronic form of the disease can develop into trichomonas carriage, while the person remains the source of infection. When the immune system malfunctions, the disease worsens.
Trichomoniasis during menopause
Reduced levels of estrogen during menopause cause dysfunction of the vaginal mucosa. Accordingly, local immunity fails, and optimal conditions are created for the development of pathogenic microorganisms. The following symptoms are typical for trichomoniasis in women during menopause:
- Abundant leucorrhoea in the form of mucus, sometimes mixed with pus or streaked with blood.
- Itching of the vulva.
- Light bleeding after sex.
In men
Most often in men the disease occurs in a latent form. The reason for this is that the urethra does not have such good conditions for the proliferation of trichomonas as in the female vagina.
Studies have shown that on the second day after sexual contact with an infected woman, trichomoniasis infection occurs in 70% of men, and after five days this figure drops to 30%.
The first signs of trichomoniasis in men:
- Pain and burning sensation in the urethra during the outflow of urine.
- The urge to urinate, which appears frequently and suddenly, usually in the morning.
- Foamy discharge from the penis that is white or yellowish in color.
- Sometimes there is blood in the urine or semen.
Long-term trichomoniasis leads to trichomonas lesions of the scrotum, causing epididymitis. The disease begins slowly with pain localized in the genital area and abdomen. After a couple of days, the inflamed appendage increases in size and thickens. Edema and hyperemia occurs, body temperature rises to 38 degrees.
If the infection affects the prostate gland, causing trichomonas prostatitis, the man experiences the following symptoms:
- Pain during bowel movements radiating to the tailbone and thigh.
- Pain in the scrotum and lower abdomen.
- Frequent urge to urinate at night.
- Cloudy urine, sometimes streaked with blood.
With Trichomonas balanoposthitis, a man may exhibit the following symptoms:
- Itching of the head of the penis.
- Cracks and sores appear on the head of the penis and foreskin.
- The mucous membrane becomes thinner.
- The head looks swollen and red.
- The foreskin narrows, making it difficult to expose the head.
Note! The symptoms of trichomoniasis in men are similar to the symptoms of gonorrhea, so differentiated diagnosis is necessary.
In children
Trichomoniasis is transmitted to the baby as it passes through the birth canal. In 90% of cases, female infants suffer from it, since the structure of the genital organs allows the infection to quickly penetrate the body. The disease is very rarely transmitted to boys.
Trichomoniasis in children manifests itself in the form of redness, swelling and itching in the genital area, as well as weak mucous discharge. But most often the disease is asymptomatic.
In older girls infected through domestic contact, the disease progresses in the same way as in adults.
Trichomoniasis in pregnant women
Most doctors agree that Trichomonas does not cause significant harm to the fetus, since these microorganisms do not penetrate the placenta. But it is necessary to treat the disease, since if it is neglected, it can cause premature birth.
During pregnancy, an exacerbation of the chronic form of the disease often occurs. It is accompanied by symptoms such as pain, burning during urination, foamy discharge, redness and itching of the vulva.
Note! Since many medications that help cope with infection during pregnancy are prohibited, the disease must be treated under the supervision of a doctor, after passing all the necessary tests.
Intestinal Trichomonas symptoms
Intestinal Trichomonas can be present in any part of the intestine and cause the following symptoms:
- Diarrhea, which is characterized by thin, watery or foamy stool mixed with mucus.
- Frequent urge to defecate, more than ten of them are observed per day.
- Diarrhea is accompanied by pain and cramps in the abdomen.
Oral Trichomonas, symptoms
Oral trichomoniasis becomes a disease manifested as:
- White or yellowish plaque in the mouth.
- Purulent discharge from gum pockets.
- Erosion on the mucous membranes of the mouth.
- Bad breath.
- A sore throat.
Factors contributing to the exacerbation of the disease
Exacerbation of the disease can occur in the following cases:
- Decreased immunity due to chronic diseases or surgical interventions.
- Infectious diseases.
- Oncological diseases.
- Venereal diseases.
- Violation of personal hygiene rules.
- Pregnancy.
- Hormonal imbalances as a result of endocrine diseases.
Most often in females, the disease worsens before menstruation. At this time, the amount of estrogen in the body decreases, so the acidity of the vagina increases, creating a suitable environment for the development of Trichomonas.
Diagnostics
Trichomonas are well adapted to exist in the human body. They can change their shape and disguise themselves as lymphocytes and platelets. Trichomonas often attract other microorganisms, evading the attack of the immune system.
In order to confirm the disease, the doctor takes a medical history. He clarifies the symptoms, finds out when they appeared and what is connected with them. The specialist also asks the patient about details of his personal life, how often the patient changes sexual partners and whether he uses condoms.
Then the patient’s genital organs are examined and the presence of inflammation is determined. During this process, the doctor takes a smear for bacterioscopic analysis. In men, material is collected from the urethra, in women from the vagina. Prostate secretions are also taken from males.
Trichomonas are very mobile, so they can easily be seen under a microscope. The result of the analysis becomes known within half an hour.
If there are no pronounced symptoms, but there are suspicions of other sexually transmitted diseases, bacterial culture is performed. The material is placed in a special nutrient medium, where pathogenic microorganisms begin to actively multiply. This makes it possible not only to determine their presence, but also sensitivity to drugs.
The most accurate method by which Trichomonas can be identified is the polymerase chain reaction PCR. The analysis is done in 1 - 2 days, and its accuracy is 95%. During this procedure, the DNA of Trichomonas cells is isolated. It also allows you to identify gonococci, mycoplasma, ureaplasma, chlamydia and other pathogenic microorganisms present in the smear.
Note! In controversial cases, the method of direct immunofluorescence PIF is used, which detects antibodies to the infectious agent.
Treatment
The goal of treating the disease is to eliminate infectious agents from the body, restore microflora and improve the functioning of the immune system. If, in addition to Trichomonas, other pathogenic microorganisms are identified in the body, treatment should be comprehensive and, in addition to antiprotozoal agents, antibiotics should be prescribed.
Pills
Metronidazole (Trichopol) has been used as the main remedy that helps cope with Trichomonas for a long time. It belongs to nitroimidazole derivatives and has antiprotozoal and antimicrobial effects. When taken orally, it is quickly absorbed and accumulates in the body in a dose that helps cope with the disease.
To combat trichomoniasis in men, on the first day you need to take 2 tablets of Metronidazole (500 mg each) three times a day. Then the daily dose is reduced by 2 tablets. Treatment is carried out for a week.
In order to get rid of trichomoniasis, women take 250 mg of Metronidazole in the morning and evening, additionally placing a suppository containing 500 mg of the active substance in the vagina before bed. Treatment should last for ten days. If necessary, it is repeated after a month.
Tinidazole is also used to combat the disease. It, like Metronidazole, is a related imidazole and damages the DNA structure of Trichomonas. In order to get rid of trichomoniasis, take 4 tablets (500 mg each) once. If necessary, the medication is repeated.
- In case of hypersensitivity to their components.
- In case of severe impairment of liver and kidney function.
- For severe diseases of the nervous system.
- In the first trimester of pregnancy.
- During lactation.
When using these drugs, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, dizziness, and headache may occur. As well as urticaria, itching, leukopenia, convulsions and general weakness. During the period of use of the products, the color of urine may change to darker.
Note! In order to improve the restoration of the immune system, vitamin complexes are prescribed: Vitrum, Duovit, Supradin.
Candles and ointments
In the complex treatment of trichomoniasis in women, suppositories are prescribed that contain the same metronidazole: Trichopolum, Klion, Metronidazole or the combined agents Terzhinan or Mikozhinax. They are inserted into the vagina once a day before bedtime. Treatment is continued for 7 to 10 days.
Men are prescribed metronidazole for topical use in the form of an ointment or gel (Metrogyl), which is applied to the head of the penis twice a day. The course of treatment will be agreed with the doctor.
Vaccination
In order to get rid of the infection and prevent re-infection not only with Trichomonas, but also with other pathogenic microorganisms, the Solcotrichovac vaccine is used. It allows you to normalize the vaginal microflora and restore its acid-base balance. Under its influence, the amount of discharge decreases and other symptoms of the disease are eliminated.
For basic immunization, 0.5 ml of the drug must be administered intramuscularly. A second injection is prescribed after 2 weeks, and the next one after a month. Revaccination is carried out after a year. With the help of Solcotrichovac, all stages of trichomoniasis in women are cured.
Treatment of oral and intestinal Trichomonas
Metronidazole-based products are also used to combat these diseases. For intestinal trichomonas, tablets are taken orally for a week. In severe cases, the drug Metrogyl is administered intravenously.
To treat the oral cavity, the drug is used in the form of Metrogil-dent gel. Miramistin spray is also used.
Folk remedies
The following folk remedies are used to treat trichomoniasis:
- Garlic tincture. 4 large cloves of garlic are crushed, pour in 50 ml of vodka and leave for a day. Strain and take 15 drops in the morning and evening for ten days.
- Aloe. The leaves of the plant are cut off, wrapped in paper and placed in the refrigerator for a day. Then they wash it, squeeze out the juice, which is used to soak a tampon from a sterile bandage and place it in the vagina overnight. Treatment is continued for a week.
- Chamomile and calendula. Mix 10 g of flowers, pour a liter of boiling water and leave until the product cools to a comfortable temperature. The product is used for washing and douching.
- Oak bark. Pour 10 g of raw material into 250 ml of water and simmer over low heat for 5 minutes. After it has cooled to a comfortable temperature, strain and use for douching or washing.
In order to get rid of trichomoniasis and prevent relapse it is necessary:
- Treat not only the patient, but also his sexual partner, since he is a carrier of the disease and will be re-infected when he resumes sexual activity.
- During the period of treatment it is necessary to stop sexual activity.
- In order for the treatment to be successful, you need to follow all the doctor’s instructions and take your medications on time.
- While taking the medications, you should not drink alcohol, as this will lead to a disulfiram-like reaction, which causes redness of the skin, fever, burning, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and loss of consciousness.
Complications of trichomoniasis
The active activity of Trichomonas in the body causes some complications. These microorganisms are able to absorb gonococci while leaving them alive. Treatment of gonorrhea with trichomoniasis becomes ineffective.
Note! Trichomonas disrupt the immune system, allowing other pathogenic microorganisms to freely penetrate and multiply. With trichomoniasis, the risk of contracting the immune deficiency virus greatly increases.
Trichomonas waste products accumulate in the body and cause intoxication. The disease leads to exhaustion, anemia, and hypoxia. Against this background, there is an exacerbation of chronic kidney or bladder diseases.
In men, trichomoniasis can become a provocateur of inflammatory processes in the prostate gland and testicle. All this can negatively affect reproductive function.
In women, trichomoniasis can be complicated by various inflammatory processes in the genitourinary tract and can also cause infertility.
Prevention of trichomoniasis
In order to prevent infection with trichomoniasis it is necessary:
- Avoid promiscuity.
- When having sex with new or untrustworthy partners, use condoms.
- When visiting public toilets, it is recommended to use toilet covers.
- Do not use other people's washcloths or towels.
- Children should provide their own soap and towel.
- If trichomoniasis is detected during pregnancy, it must be treated before delivery.
- In order to prevent infection with Trichomonas after unprotected sexual intercourse, it is necessary to use products based on Chlorhexidine or Miramistin.
- A month after unprotected contact, you must consult a venereologist and get tested.
- Trichomonas cannot exist outside the human body for a long time; you can get rid of them using disinfectants or a solution of ordinary washing soap.
- In order to strengthen your immune system, you need to eat right. The diet should consist of vegetables, fruits, lean meat and fish. It is better to avoid eating heavy foods, as they negatively affect the state of the digestive system and the body as a whole.
- It is also recommended to get rid of bad habits. Drinking alcohol can trigger an exacerbation of the chronic form of the disease, and smoking has a bad effect on the immune system.
If you identify signs of the disease, even after finding out everything about trichomoniasis, you should not self-medicate. The doctor should prescribe medications and their regimen after a face-to-face consultation.