Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a microscopic parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. While many people with this infection may not experience symptoms, it is treatable with medication. Understanding the treatment process and what to expect can help ensure a successful recovery. This article guides you through the treatment journey, from understanding your medication to preventing reinfection and the importance of follow-up care.
Understanding Your Medication
Treatment for trichomoniasis typically involves oral medications, most commonly metronidazole or tinidazole. These medications kill the parasite responsible for the infection. For women, a common regimen for metronidazole is 500 mg taken twice daily for seven days. Men are often prescribed a single 2-gram dose of metronidazole. Alternatively, tinidazole can be prescribed as a single 2-gram oral dose for both men and women.
It is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. This includes adhering to the specified dosage, frequency, and duration of the treatment course. Taking these medications with food can help minimize potential stomach upset. Completing the entire course is important, even if symptoms improve before you finish the pills, to ensure the infection is fully eradicated.
What to Expect During Treatment
While taking medication for trichomoniasis, you may experience some common side effects. These include nausea, a metallic taste, headache, and dizziness. These side effects are usually mild and resolve once the medication course is completed. If side effects are severe or do not go away, contact your healthcare provider.
A severe disulfiram-like reaction can occur if alcohol is consumed while taking metronidazole or tinidazole. This reaction can cause unpleasant symptoms such as severe nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, flushing, and a rapid heart rate. Avoid all alcoholic beverages and products containing alcohol during treatment and for at least 24 to 72 hours after completing the medication, depending on the specific drug. Symptoms of trichomoniasis typically begin to improve within a few days of starting treatment.
Preventing Reinfection and Protecting Partners
Preventing reinfection and spread relies on treating all affected individuals. All sexual partners from the last 60 days, or the most recent partner if longer, should be tested and treated simultaneously. This concurrent treatment helps prevent a cycle of reinfection. If partners are not treated, reinfection is highly likely, with approximately 1 in 5 people becoming reinfected within three months.
Abstaining from sexual activity is advised until you and all sexual partners have completed treatment and symptoms have resolved. This period typically lasts about seven days after medication completion. Consistent and correct use of condoms during sexual activity can reduce the risk of contracting or transmitting STIs, including trichomoniasis.
Importance of Follow-Up
Follow-up care is important after trichomoniasis treatment, especially for women. A “test of cure” (repeat testing) is recommended due to possible reinfection or treatment failure. For sexually active women, retesting is typically recommended approximately three months after initial treatment, regardless of whether their partners were treated. This helps confirm the infection is gone and addresses the high rate of reinfection in women.
This follow-up test helps ensure treatment effectiveness and checks for reinfection by an untreated partner. If the test result is still positive or if symptoms return, your healthcare provider will discuss further steps, which may include re-treatment or investigating potential drug resistance. Retesting provides an opportunity to address remaining concerns and maintain your sexual health.