Can Trichomoniasis Come Back? Recurrence and Treatment Explained
Trichomoniasis, a common Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI), affects millions globally.
Approximately 3.7 million people in the United States alone contract Trichomoniasis each year.
A protozoan parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis causes Trichomoniasis.
Once treated with antibiotics, most individuals recover successfully.
While treatment is available, the question lingers: Can Trichomoniasis come back?
This article explores the likelihood of Trichomoniasis recurrence and effective preventive and treatment measures.
Reasons why Trichomoniasis keeps coming back
Like many STIs, Trichomoniasis, or Trich, can reoccur.
This means that if an individual had previously been infected, they are at risk of contracting the disease again.
Reinfection may occur if exposed to the parasite again.
The following are some possible causes of recurring Trichomoniasis:
Insufficient treatment
Inadequate treatment, such as not completing the full course of antibiotics or not taking the medication correctly, can contribute to the infection returning.
The standard treatment for Trichomoniasis is the antibiotic Metronidazole, usually taken as 250 mg thrice a day or 500mg tablets twice a day for 5 to 7 days.
If this treatment is ineffective, an alternative is taking a single 2g dose of Metronidazole twice daily for seven days.
Another option is the antibiotic Tinidazole, which is usually more effective than Metronidazole but can be more expensive and have fewer side effects.
It’s important for both partners to receive treatment at the same time and to abstain from sex until the treatment is completed to prevent reinfection.
If the prescribed antibiotics are not taken as directed, or the full course is not completed, it increases the risk of the infection persisting.
Reinfection
The fact that the body does not develop an immunity to Trich is one of the reasons Trichomoniasis might not go away.
Thus, there’s a good chance of getting infected again when having sex with someone who is infected.
This is especially valid for those who engage in several sexual relationships.
Males may potentially be carriers of Trichomoniasis without even realizing it.
This is because men do not always exhibit the symptoms.
For this reason, both partners should be tested for Trich simultaneously.
This ensures that, if both are infected, they receive the appropriate care to stop the virus from spreading.
Resistance to antibiotics
Treatment options for Trichomoniasis include Metronidazole and Tinidazole.
However, 4-10% of cases can resist Metronidazole, while 1% develop resistance to Tinidazole.
If recurring Trichomoniasis is due to antibiotic resistance, the doctor may explore other forms of treatment.
They may also refer the case to a specialist if the usual treatment does not work.
How to stop Trichomoniasis from coming back
To prevent recurrence, both partners should receive treatment at the same time and abstain from sex until the treatment is completed to prevent reinfection.
It’s also important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.
Repeat screening for reinfection at three months is recommended.
Testing for other STIs, including HIV, should be offered.
Treatment for recurring Trichomoniasis
Recurring Trichomoniasis can be treated with antibiotics, similar to the treatment prescribed for the first time.
The recommended treatment is Metronidazole, 500 mg twice daily for seven days, or Tinidazole, 2g, once.
Simultaneous treatment of all sex partners is vital for preventing reinfections.
Some recurrent infections may be from decreased sensitivity to Nitroimidazoles.
If resistance is suspected, Tinidazole can be used effectively if repeat treatment with Metronidazole fails.
Intravaginal application of Paromomycin has been successfully used to treat recurrent Trichomoniasis.
Conclusion
Trichomoniasis is a common STI that can be treated with antibiotics.
However, recurrence is common.
While Trichomoniasis can be effectively treated, understanding the factors contributing to recurrence is essential.
Completing the prescribed treatment, practicing safe sex, and getting tested regularly can help prevent Trichomoniasis and its recurrence.
Regular testing provides additional assurance, promoting overall sexual health.
If Trichomoniasis does come back, it can be again treated with antibiotics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Trichomoniasis cause back pain?
Trichomoniasis, an SIT caused by a parasite, primarily affects the genital area and urinary tract. While it may cause discomfort or pain during urination, it is unlikely to cause back pain directly. However, complications or coexisting conditions could sometimes contribute to back discomfort.
Can Trichomoniasis come back after years?
Yes, Trichomoniasis can reoccur after years. While some individuals may clear the infection without treatment, others may experience recurring episodes. Factors such as sexual activity, compromised immune system, or reinfection can contribute to the return of Trichomoniasis even after an extended period of apparent resolution.
How to prevent Trichomoniasis from coming back?
To prevent Trichomoniasis recurrence, practice safe sex by using condoms, communicate openly with sexual partners about STI status, and get regular screenings. Complete the prescribed antibiotic treatment and ensure that your partner(s) also receive treatment. Abstain from sexual activity until both partners complete treatment and test negative for the infection.
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