Overview
Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite called Trichomonas Vaginalis, which spreads mainly through sexual contact. A female experiencing trichomoniasis may have vaginal itching or irritation followed by malodorous or greenish discharge.
This can be particularly uncomfortable during sexual intercourse as it can cause pain within the cervix and vaginal area. In men, however, the symptoms might be mild in most cases. Men can experience symptoms such as discharge from their penis, painful urination, or mild itching.
A doctor may suggest a swab test to isolate the parasite if needed. If you feel any of the above symptoms, you should consult a doctor about precautions needed during intercourse and possible diagnostics.
What antibiotics are used to treat Trichomoniasis?
Prescription Medications
Trichomoniasis usually does not resolve on its own; the infection tends to persist until the right treatment plan is followed. Treatment requires the consumption of antibiotics. But isn’t Trichomoniasis caused by a parasitic infection? Generally, the belief is that antibiotics are made specifically to counter bacterial colonization or infection. It is important to know that some non-bacterial protozoans also have a degree of resemblance with the bacterial structure, which makes them susceptible to antibiotic action. Upon assessment, the doctor may prescribe you either one of the antibiotics listed below
- Metronidazole (commonly known as Flagyl)
- Tinidazole
Over the counter Antibiotics
Antibiotics are not available OTC; moreover, in any case, it is recommended not to consume any antibiotics without consulting with a doctor first since antibiotics are specialized medicines that work solely against specific pathogens. Taking antibiotics at random without formal prescriptions could result in side effects or antibiotic resistance.
Can I take antibiotics to treat Trichomoniasis during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, the body undergoes substantial changes. Moreover, each pregnancy might be different from the other depending on multiple factors. Therefore, it is important to consult a medical professional before starting any kind of medication. At the same time, it is crucial that Trichomoniasis is treated promptly in expecting mothers since it increases the chance of preterm births and babies being born with low birth weight.
Metronidazole is usually not preferred in the first trimester; however, in certain situations, the doctor might deem it necessary to put you on a metronidazole course. In the second and third trimesters, doctors might prescribe metronidazole since it’s generally considered safer after the first trimester.
However, due to data limitations, Tinidazole is not recommended at all during pregnancy.
When to consult a doctor?
Since Trichomoniasis is a disease that usually does not resolve on its own, it’s always suggested to get the best treatment plan from a doctor. However, certain aspects of the disease make it crucial for the patient to consult a doctor immediately.
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Have had sexual intercourse with someone suspected to have Trichomoniasis
- Pregnancy
- Symptoms become worse
- Worried about reinfection
FAQs about the antibiotics for trichomoniasis
A physician will guide you through the treatment plan. They might prescribe you a “megadose,” which is a high amount of antibiotic in one dose or several small doses. However, in general, you might start to see improvement in the amount of discharge and itchiness in 3-4 days, even though full recovery usually takes around one week of treatment and protocols.
Tinidazole can be given as an alternative. However, patients must always consult a doctor before changing medication or starting a new course. Also, beware Tinidazole is not prescribed to pregnant women.
No, if the treatment plan is followed properly, reinfections are rare. But in some cases where both partners are not treated or the patient is resistant to the given antibiotics, we might see reinfections.
