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 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 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 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 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 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.