Question 1

What is Trichomoniasis?

Accepted Answer

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection that affects both men and women. It is caused by the Trichomonas vaginalis parasite, which infects the urogenital tract. The Trichomonas vaginalis RNA test is the most important test for diagnosis because it directly detects the genetic material of the parasite with high accuracy.

Question 2

What causes trichomoniasis?

Accepted Answer

Trichomoniasis is caused by the Trichomonas vaginalis parasite, a microscopic organism that infects the urogenital tract. This parasite is transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, oral, or anal sex with an infected partner. The parasite thrives in warm, moist environments and can survive outside the body for a short period, though direct sexual contact is the primary mode of transmission. Unlike bacterial STIs, trichomoniasis is caused by a protozoan parasite, making it unique among common sexually transmitted infections.

Question 3

What is the best test for trichomoniasis?

Accepted Answer

The Trichomonas vaginalis RNA Qualitative TMA test is the most important test for trichomoniasis because it directly detects the genetic material of the parasite with exceptional sensitivity and accuracy. For women, the Trichomonas vaginalis RNA test for females identifies active infections by detecting parasite RNA in vaginal samples. Men should use the male-specific version, which detects the parasite in urine or urethral samples. These RNA-based tests are far superior to older microscopy methods because they can detect infections even when parasite levels are low or symptoms are absent. The test provides definitive diagnosis, allowing for prompt treatment and preventing transmission to sexual partners.

Question 4

When should I get tested for trichomoniasis?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience unusual vaginal or penile discharge, itching or irritation in the genital area, burning during urination, or discomfort during sex. Testing is also important if you have a new sexual partner, multiple partners, or if a current or former partner has been diagnosed with an STI. Many people with trichomoniasis have no symptoms at all, so regular STI screening is recommended for sexually active individuals, especially those not in mutually monogamous relationships. Get tested promptly if you notice any changes in your genital health or after unprotected sexual contact.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of trichomoniasis?

Accepted Answer

Trichomoniasis symptoms vary between men and women, and many infected people have no symptoms at all. Women often experience a frothy, yellow-green vaginal discharge with a strong odor, vaginal itching or irritation, painful urination, and discomfort during intercourse. Men may notice itching or irritation inside the penis, burning after urination or ejaculation, and occasionally a clear or whitish discharge from the penis. Symptoms typically appear within 5 to 28 days after infection, though some people remain asymptomatic for months or years while still being contagious.

Question 6

Who is at risk for trichomoniasis?

Accepted Answer

Anyone who is sexually active can get trichomoniasis, but certain factors increase your risk. Having multiple sexual partners, a history of other STIs, or engaging in unprotected sex significantly raises your chances of infection. Women are more commonly diagnosed than men, and the infection is more prevalent among older women. Previous trichomoniasis infection does not provide immunity, so reinfection is possible. People with weakened immune systems may be more susceptible, and using condoms inconsistently or not at all dramatically increases risk of transmission.

Question 7

What happens if trichomoniasis is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated trichomoniasis can lead to serious health complications and increase your risk of other infections. In women, chronic infection can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, increase susceptibility to HIV infection, and lead to pregnancy complications including preterm delivery and low birth weight babies. Men can develop chronic prostatitis and inflammation of the urethra. The infection also makes you more likely to contract or transmit HIV because the genital irritation and inflammation create entry points for the virus. Untreated trichomoniasis continues to be contagious indefinitely, putting all sexual partners at risk.

Question 8

Can trichomoniasis be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Trichomoniasis is not diagnosed with traditional blood tests because the Trichomonas vaginalis parasite lives in the urogenital tract, not the bloodstream. The most accurate diagnosis uses RNA testing on vaginal swabs for women or urine samples for men. The Trichomonas vaginalis RNA Qualitative TMA test detects the genetic material of the parasite directly from the infection site, providing highly sensitive and specific results. While blood tests are valuable for many STIs, trichomoniasis requires sample collection from the genital area where the parasite resides. Modern RNA testing has largely replaced older microscopy methods due to superior accuracy.

Question 9

How is trichomoniasis treated?

Accepted Answer

Trichomoniasis is treated with prescription antiparasitic medications, typically metronidazole or tinidazole taken as a single large dose or over several days. The treatment is highly effective, curing about 95% of infections when taken correctly. Both sexual partners must be treated simultaneously to prevent reinfection, even if one partner has no symptoms. You should avoid sexual contact until both partners complete treatment and symptoms resolve, usually about a week. Alcohol should be avoided during treatment and for 24-48 hours after the last dose to prevent severe nausea. Follow-up testing may be recommended three months after treatment to ensure the infection is cleared.

Question 10

How can I prevent trichomoniasis?

Accepted Answer

Preventing trichomoniasis involves practicing safe sex and making informed decisions about sexual activity. Using latex condoms correctly every time you have sex significantly reduces transmission risk, though the parasite can infect areas not covered by condoms. Limiting your number of sexual partners and being in a mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner eliminates risk. Regular STI screening for both you and your partners helps detect infections early before complications develop. Avoiding douching is important for women, as it can spread the infection higher into the reproductive tract and disrupt natural protective bacteria.

Question 11

What can I do at home for trichomoniasis symptoms?

Accepted Answer

While home remedies cannot cure trichomoniasis, certain measures can help manage symptoms while you seek medical treatment. Avoid sexual contact until you complete prescribed treatment to prevent spreading the infection. Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes to reduce irritation and moisture in the genital area. Do not douche, as this can worsen symptoms and push the infection deeper. Taking probiotics may support vaginal health, though they do not treat the parasitic infection itself. Focus on maintaining good personal hygiene without using harsh soaps or feminine hygiene products that can cause further irritation. Most importantly, get tested and obtain prescription medication, as trichomoniasis requires antiparasitic treatment to clear completely.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Trichomoniasis Blood Test & STI Screening

What is Trichomoniasis?

What causes trichomoniasis?

What is the best test for trichomoniasis?

When should I get tested for trichomoniasis?

References

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