Can trichomonas be seen with the naked eye?

Written by Xu Xiao Ming
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 13, 2024
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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.

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How long does it generally take to treat a trichomoniasis infection?

Trichomoniasis infection generally improves within a week. Trichomoniasis requires symptomatic medication, and typically, is almost completely resolved after a week. Clinically, trichomonal vaginitis usually presents as abnormal discharge. Normally, vaginal discharge in women is clear, transparent, odorless, and minimal. Patients with trichomoniasis will have watery discharge with a fishy odor and itching, especially worsening at night. At this time, topical medications for symptomatic treatment can be used as well as oral medications. Thus, trichomoniasis is a common condition among women, and the treatment is generally effective, with symptomatic treatment usually resulting in improvement within a week.

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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 Huang Shuai
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Is vulvar itching caused by yeast or trichomonas?

Judging whether it is yeast or trichomoniasis based solely on vulvular itching is very difficult. Whether it is yeast, trichomoniasis, or even bacterial vaginitis, all can cause vulvar itching. In addition, simple vulvitis can also lead to symptoms of vulvar itching. Of course, the itching symptoms caused by yeast vaginitis among these diseases are usually the most severe. However, there are also some symptoms that are not especially severe. Thus, it is very difficult to distinguish the specific disease based solely on the symptom of vulvar itching. When this situation arises, it is advisable to visit a hospital for an examination, including an examination of the secretions, which may be able to definitively determine whether the cause is yeast, trichomoniasis, bacteria, or simply vulvitis, or even possibly some pathological changes in the vulvar skin.

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Written by Ma Yu Yu
Infectious Disease
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How to deal with recurrent trichomoniasis?

If you have trichomonal vaginitis, there will be an increase in vaginal discharge and itching in the vulva. If not treated thoroughly, it may recur frequently. It is recommended for trichomonal vaginitis to purchase some cleansing solution to wash the vulva and use metronidazole vaginal tablets to reduce inflammation and treat the condition, continuing for seven to ten days as one treatment course. If the symptoms are severe, it might be necessary to undergo three treatment courses, and the sexual partner should also be treated simultaneously. During the treatment period, refrain from sexual intercourse to prevent cross-infection.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Is trichomonal vaginitis prone to recurrence?

Trichomonas vaginitis is a common gynecological disease caused by Trichomonas vaginalis. It has a high incidence rate. Recurrence is likely if the treatment is incomplete, or if there is sexual activity during treatment, and if personal hygiene is not maintained, or if there is poor resistance. It is advised to visit the gynecology outpatient clinic at a local reputable hospital. Under the guidance of a clinical doctor, cooperate actively with the treatment. During treatment, sexual activity should be prohibited, maintain cleanliness and hygiene of the private parts, wear loose, breathable, pure cotton underwear, change frequently, and avoid eating spicy or other irritating foods.