Can trichomoniasis be cured?

Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 28, 2024
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Trichomonas infection in women results in trichomonal vaginitis, which is treatable and curable. The primary treatment for trichomonal vaginitis involves oral intake of metronidazole or tinidazole, and metronidazole can also be placed inside the vagina. However, during treatment, both male and female partners must undergo treatment simultaneously, as this disease is mostly transmitted through sexual intercourse. Therefore, if a woman has trichomonas, it is very likely that the male partner also has it. If the male does not receive treatment, he may re-infect the female during subsequent sexual activities. Thus, thorough treatment can only be achieved after both partners are treated. (Specific medications should be taken under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Huang Shuai
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can trichomonal vaginitis heal itself without treatment?

Trichomonas vaginitis is caused by an infection of Trichomonas vaginalis in the vagina. Without treatment, it is usually difficult to heal on its own. Furthermore, Trichomonas vaginalis in vaginal trichomoniasis can not only occur in the vagina but can also cause infections in the urinary system and enter into the urethra. Therefore, when diagnosing trichomonas vaginitis, it is generally advised not to use local treatment, i.e., not to administer medication solely into the vagina, but to recommend systemic treatment, generally recommending oral administration. This is because if only vaginal medication is administered, it might initially clear the trichomonas vaginalis in the vagina, but since the urinary system may still harbor Trichomonas vaginalis, it could lead to a recurrence of trichomonas vaginitis.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What is the old good method to treat trichomonal vaginitis?

The type of vaginitis detected is trichomonal vaginitis, which requires simultaneous treatment for both partners. It is necessary for both partners to disinfect all their underwear by either boiling or sun exposure. Treatment involves oral administration of metronidazole, tinidazole, or ornidazole, rather than using broad-spectrum antibiotics or vaginal suppository treatments. Vaginal medications may provide relief, but often the condition will recur.

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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 Huang Shuai
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can trichomonal vaginitis be cured without recurrence?

Currently, the vast majority of cases of trichomonas vaginitis can be cured. However, before treating trichomonas vaginitis, the first step is to accurately diagnose whether the trichomonas is truly present. In addition, it's important to pay attention during treatment because trichomonas vaginitis is caused by an infection from Trichomonas vaginalis, which can occur not only in the female reproductive system but also in the urinary system. Therefore, when vaginitis is present, it is possible that the trichomonas has also infected the urethra. Thus, in the treatment of trichomonas vaginitis, it is generally not recommended to use only local medications, that is, applying medicine only to the vaginal area. Instead, oral medication is suggested. This is because if only the vagina is treated and the urinary tract is also infected, it could likely lead to frequent recurrences. Hence, oral administration of medication is usually recommended.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to treat symptoms of trichomonal vaginitis

Trichomonas vaginitis should not be diagnosed solely based on symptoms. Even if there are symptoms like frothy white discharge, a lab test is necessary for confirmation before treatment can proceed. Trichomonas vaginitis requires both partners to take oral medication simultaneously. Medications such as metronidazole, tinidazole, or ornidazole, which target trichomonas, are necessary. It is essential to take these medications orally; treatment cannot rely only on vaginal applications. Both partners must also sanitize all underwear either by ironing or sun exposure to prevent recurrence. (Medication should be taken under the guidance of a professional doctor.)