Can trichomonal vaginitis heal on its own without medication?

Written by Huang Shuai
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on May 25, 2025
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Trichomonas vaginitis is often caused by an infection with Trichomonas vaginalis and generally does not heal spontaneously without treatment. Moreover, the trichomonads causing trichomonas vaginitis can also be present in the urinary system, i.e., they can appear in the urethra. Therefore, after diagnosing trichomonas vaginitis, it is usually not recommended to use local medications, i.e., medications applied only in the vagina, but rather to use systemic medications. This is because trichomonads may be present in locations other than the vagina. If only local vaginal medications are used, it might lead to the situation where, even if the vaginal infection is cured, trichomonas vaginitis could be reinfected from the urethra, leading to a recurrence. Hence, once diagnosed with trichomonas vaginitis, it is recommended to treat it, and oral medication is advised.

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Trichomonas vaginitis combined with cervical erosion is caused by what?

Trichomonas vaginalis infection usually causes trichomonas vaginitis, while cervical erosion in most cases is a physiological condition, primarily due to the excessive growth of columnar epithelial cells on the cervix under the action of estrogen, replacing some of the squamous epithelial cells, thus presenting an eroded state of the cervix. Of course, this physiological condition sometimes cannot be easily distinguished visually from pathological changes, such as precancerous lesions of the cervix or cervical cancer. Therefore, when cervical erosion occurs, it is emphasized that cervical cancer screening must be performed, including tests like TCT (ThinPrep Cytology Test) and HPV (Human Papillomavirus) screening.

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What happens if trichomonal vaginitis becomes severe?

If trichomonal vaginitis is severe, it may lead to ascending inflammation, resulting in cystitis and pyelonephritis. Therefore, trichomonal vaginitis is considered quite serious. When trichomonal vaginitis occurs, it is important to actively treat the symptoms. If it is untreated or not properly treated, it can become chronic trichomonal vaginitis. At this stage, there will be an increase in vaginal discharge, which appears grayish-white and has an odor, along with urinary tract infections. During an infection, symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, and painful urination may occur. Patients with trichomonal vaginitis may also experience reddening and itching of the external genitalia, with scratch marks, and even ulcers. Therefore, it is crucial to actively treat trichomonal vaginitis if it is detected.

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Written by Su Wen
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How to completely cure trichomonal vaginitis?

During the treatment of trichomonas vaginitis, it is necessary to maintain the cleanliness of the vulva to prevent secondary bacterial infections. Clean the vulva daily, change underwear frequently, and avoid eating spicy foods and drinking alcohol during the acute phase. Sexual activities should be prohibited during the treatment period. After the treatment, it is important to promptly check for trichomonas negativity. Treatment should continue for one more course after the next menstrual period is clean, and vaginal discharge should be re-examined after each menstrual period; only after three negative results can it be considered cured. Additionally, attention should be paid to avoiding reinfection during treatment. Underwear and towels used for washing should be boiled for five to ten minutes to eliminate pathogens, which is crucial for the radical cure of trichomonas vaginitis.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
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What is a good medicine for trichomonal vaginitis?

If the examination of vaginal secretions clearly indicates trichomonal vaginitis, treatment must specifically target trichomoniasis using drugs such as metronidazole, tinidazole, or ornidazole. Trichomonal vaginitis requires simultaneous treatment of both partners; treating only the woman is inadequate. It is also necessary for both partners to sterilize or sun-dry their underwear or bed sheets, as failing to do so can lead to easy recurrence. Therefore, detecting trichomonal vaginitis cannot be solely treated with medication applied inside the vagina.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
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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.)