What is Trichomonal vulvovaginitis

Trichomonal vulvovaginitis is inflammation or swelling of the vulva or vagina induced by the sexually transferred infection trichomoniasis. A common sexually transmitted infection (STI), the infection is caused by a parasite known as trichomonad which affects the woman’s cervix, vagina, vulva and urethra.

Around 2.3 million women in the age bracket of 14 and 49 years are diagnosed with trichomoniasis, which is the most among the sexually active women among the age group of 16 to 35 years old. These are the important points pertaining to Trichomonal vulvovaginitis:

- It has no symptoms
- It can be cured with antibiotics
- Trichomoniasis also increases your risk of getting HIV
- Women aged 50 years and older have the highest trichomonas infection rate.

Testing for Trichomonal Vulvovaginitis

To determine trichomonas infection, the woman has to give her vaginal discharge for testing. While on the exterior there might be a red appearance and lots of itching and burning, it is still important to get these tests taken. With the vaginal discharge, the medical professional will send it for DNA tests, RNA tests or NAAT tests and even take the woman’s urine sample. The medical professional will also do a pelvic exam when the symptoms become too apparent.

Symptoms of Trichomonal Vulvovaginitis -

Trichomonal vulvovaginitis usually doesn't have any obvious symptoms. However, the most usual symptoms of Trichomonal vulvovaginitis are vaginal discharge that can be grey, white, green, or yellow, and ordinarily frothy with an offensive smell.

Other symptoms of Trichomonal Vulvovaginitis include:

- Genital itching or burning
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Vaginal spotting or bleeding
- Genital redness or swelling
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Pain during urination

Trichomonal Vulvovaginitis Treatment:

Self Care - It is good to keep your genital area clean and dry in case of vaginitis. Women with Trichomonal Vulvovaginitis have the risk of getting pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

Medication - You may need to use the yeast medicine for up to 14 days in case of severe symptoms. You will also have to have an oral antibiotic. Take the entire dose of medication and urge your partner to do the same.

Specialists - Call your provider in case the symptoms don't subside and in cases of experiencing pelvic pain or a fever. Talk to our mfine healthcare professionals to get a customized treatment plan by diagnosing your condition. Visit a top gynaecologist and get treatment for your condition. Through the mfine app, you can schedule an instant consultation with top gynecologists.