What causes the symptoms of trichomonal vaginitis?

Written by Luo Chun Yan
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on October 26, 2024
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The symptoms of trichomonas vaginitis primarily manifest as an increase in vaginal discharge, itching of the vulva, and burning pain. The discharge in trichomonas vaginitis is usually abundant, sometimes frothy, and can be thin or pus-like, irritating the vulva and vaginal skin, causing mucosal congestion and edema, thus leading to pain. In severe cases, it can cause swelling of the vulva and the urethral opening, as well as symptoms like frequent urination, urgent urination, and painful urination. Trichomonas vaginitis is mostly transmitted directly through sexual intercourse, but it can also be contracted by using public baths, squat toilets, or clothing containing the parasite, although direct transmission through sexual activity is the primary route. Treating trichomonas vaginitis requires oral medication and systemic treatment, and sexual partners must be treated simultaneously. This is because most infected males may not show obvious symptoms, but if left untreated, they can easily cause recurrence and become a significant source of infection.

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Written by Zhang Chun Yun
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How long is the incubation period for trichomonal vaginitis?

In cases of trichomonas vaginitis, the incubation period for women can vary in length and differs from person to person; it cannot be generalized. The specific onset time of the vaginitis should be considered. Generally, the incubation period for trichomonas vaginitis can be as short as 4 to 5 days, or as long as over 20 days. Trichomonas vaginitis is caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis and is a common form of vaginitis. Trichomonas vaginalis thrives in temperatures between 26°C to 40°C, in moist environments with a pH value of 5.2 to 6.6. It can survive for 21 days at 3 to 5°C, for 20 to 60 minutes at 40°C, approximately 10 hours in a semi-dry environment, and for 45 to 120 minutes in ordinary soap water. Therefore, the incubation period for trichomonas vaginitis varies. If you have further questions, it is advisable to consult a doctor at a hospital.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can trichomoniasis be completely cured?

Trichomonas vaginitis can be completely cured, but it is mostly transmitted through sexual activity. Therefore, both partners must be treated simultaneously during treatment. Oral metronidazole or tinidazole can be taken, and metronidazole can also be placed inside the vagina. Generally, a 7-day course of treatment is sufficient for cure. One week after stopping the medication, a follow-up examination should be conducted, and this should be repeated twice. Only if both results are negative can the cure be considered complete. Males also need to take the medication for at least 7 days, because if a woman is treated and then resumes sexual activity, the male can re-infect the female. (Please use the medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Zhang Lu
Obstetrics
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Can trichomonas get pregnant?

If a woman undergoing a vaginal secretion test is found to have trichomonas, she should be diagnosed with trichomoniasis. It is not recommended for women with trichomoniasis to become pregnant; they should first treat the trichomoniasis before attempting conception. If pregnancy occurs while trichomoniasis is present, the inflammation might spread through the cervix into the uterine cavity, affecting the implantation and later development of the gestational sac. Even if the gestational sac develops in the early stages, there might be complications such as intrauterine infection or premature rupture of membranes later on. Therefore, once diagnosed with trichomoniasis, treatment with medications should be initiated, typically healing within a week. After experiencing another menstrual cycle, it is then completely safe to try to conceive.

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Written by Gan Hai Ying
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What are the symptoms of trichomonas vaginitis?

The symptoms of trichomoniasis vaginitis include: First, there can be a significant increase in vaginal discharge, which is mostly thin, purulent, and yellow-green in color, frothy, and has a distinct foul odor. Second, it can manifest as itching or a clear burning sensation and pain in the vulva, and even significant pain during sexual intercourse. Third, upon gynecological examination, the vaginal mucosa can be found to be visibly congested, and scattered bleeding points may even be observed, as well as bleeding spots on the cervix, which is what is commonly referred to as a strawberry-like cervix. A routine examination of vaginal discharge that reveals trichomonas can diagnose trichomoniasis vaginitis. Since trichomoniasis vaginitis can be sexually transmitted, it is necessary to treat the sexual partner with antitrichomonal medication simultaneously.

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Written by Xu Xiao Ming
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can trichomonas be seen with the naked eye?

Trichomonas cannot be seen with the naked eye; to test for trichomonas, observation under a microscope is required, involving the collection of vaginal secretions. The simplest method is to mix the vaginal secretions with a 0.9% sodium chloride solution using a slide technique. After mixing the vaginal secretions with the sodium chloride solution, immediately search for trichomonas under low magnification. If trichomonas exhibiting wave-like motion and increased white blood cells being pushed are visible under the microscope, it is highly suspected that trichomonas is present. Moreover, it is advised to avoid sexual intercourse or local medication 24-48 hours before collecting the secretions.