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Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a common STD that most often affects young women, with an estimated 7.4 million cases each year. Caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, this infection most often affects the vagina in women or the urethra in men as a result of penis-to-vagina intercourse or vulva-to-vulva contact.

Fortunately, trichomoniasis is usually only a minor condition that can be successfully treated through the reliable, comprehensive services provided at Urgent Care Torrance.

Symptoms

In women, trichomoniasis may cause vaginal discharge with a strong odor, as well as discomfort during intercourse and urination and irritation and itching in the genital area. Men may experience irritation, discharge and burning after urination or ejaculation, although most men do not experience any symptoms from this condition.

Symptoms usually develop within a few days or weeks after exposure, usually within 5 to 28 days.

Diagnosis

Your doctor can diagnose trichomoniasis by taking a swab sample from the vaginal or urethral discharge, which is then examined under a microscope for signs of infection. This condition is sometimes difficult to diagnose in men, while women will usually have small red sores on the vaginal wall or the cervix.

Complications

While trichomoniasis does not usually lead to any serious complications, it may increase a woman's risk of acquiring HIV if exposed to the virus, and can also increase the risk of passing HIV to a partner. Pregnant women with trichomoniasis may have a baby born prematurely or with a low birth weight. It is important to seek proper medical care from an experienced doctor for trichomoniasis and any other sexually transmitted infection.

Treatment

Trichomoniasis can be cured in most cases, sometimes without a need for any treatment. In most cases, your doctor at Urgent Care Torrance will prescribe antibiotics such as metronidazole or tinidazole, which are taken orally in a single dose.

Both partners should be treated even if they do not have any symptoms. It is important to avoid sex until treatment is completed, even if symptoms disappear before that. Women can be infected repeatedly by men who never exhibited any symptoms.

Prevention

Patients can prevent infection with trichomoniasis by abstaining from vaginal and anal intercourse or by using a condom every time you have sex. If infected, it is important to inform any sex partners of your infection and to make sure they get tested and treated if needed. This will help reduce your risk of re-infection and from spreading the disease to your partner.

Your doctor at Urgent Care Torrance can provide an individualized treatment and prevention plan for you to help you maintain a safe and healthy sex life while also reducing your risk of complications from infection.

For your urgent care needs in Torrance and the South Bay, please call or visit us today!