Red flags & when to go in person for Trichomoniasis - Testing & Treatment Pathway

Audience: adult

Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite. It often causes symptoms like itching, burning, or unusual discharge, but some people may have no symptoms at all. Testing and treatment can often be started through telemedicine, making care more convenient. However, certain warning signs mean you should see a healthcare provider in person promptly. These include severe pain, fever, or symptoms that worsen despite treatment. This guide explains when telemedicine can help and when in-person care is needed, what to prepare for a tele-visit, and how to care for yourself afterward. Remember, telemedicine advice is educational and not a substitute for direct medical evaluation when urgent or complex issues arise.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe pelvic or abdominal pain requiring immediate in-person evaluation
• High fever or chills indicating possible spreading infection
• Allergic reactions to medication such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild symptoms suggestive of trichomoniasis
• Providing education about trichomoniasis transmission and prevention
• Prescribing antibiotics for uncomplicated cases when appropriate
• Guidance on notifying and managing sexual partners
• Follow-up consultations for symptom monitoring

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe or worsening symptoms needing physical examination
• Suspected complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease
• Allergic reactions or adverse medication effects requiring emergency care
• Situations requiring laboratory testing not available remotely
• Cases with uncertain diagnosis needing in-person diagnostic procedures

What is Trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is an infection caused by a tiny parasite called *Trichomonas vaginalis*. It spreads mainly through sexual contact. Many people with trichomoniasis do not have symptoms, but when symptoms occur, they may include itching, burning during urination, redness, and unusual discharge from the vagina or penis.

How is Trichomoniasis Tested and Treated?

Testing usually involves a sample from the vagina, urethra, or urine. This sample is analyzed to detect the parasite. Treatment typically includes prescription antibiotics that kill the parasite. Partners should also be treated to prevent reinfection. Telemedicine can often help start testing and treatment quickly and discreetly.

When to Use Telemedicine for Trichomoniasis

Telemedicine can be a good choice if you have mild symptoms or were exposed to trichomoniasis and want testing or treatment advice. It allows you to consult a healthcare provider remotely, receive prescriptions, and get information about preventing spread and reinfection.

Red Flags: When to Seek In-Person Care

Certain symptoms or situations require prompt in-person evaluation. These include:

If you experience any of these, visit a healthcare facility immediately.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit:

Aftercare and Follow-Up

After your telemedicine visit:

Preventing Trichomoniasis

To reduce your risk:

These steps help prevent trichomoniasis and other sexually transmitted infections.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have a list of current symptoms and when they began
• Know recent sexual history and partner information
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss
• Ensure a private, quiet space with reliable internet
• Have identification and any relevant medical records ready

After your tele-visit

• Take prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed
• Avoid sexual contact until treatment completion and partner treatment
• Watch for symptom improvement or worsening
• Schedule follow-up if symptoms persist or new symptoms develop
• Inform sexual partners so they can seek testing and treatment

FAQs

Can trichomoniasis go away without treatment?

Trichomoniasis may sometimes clear up on its own, but this is not common. Without treatment, the infection can last for months or years and may cause complications. It is best to get tested and treated to avoid spreading the infection to others.

Is it safe to take antibiotics prescribed through telemedicine?

Yes, antibiotics prescribed through telemedicine are generally safe when used as directed. Healthcare providers will assess your symptoms and medical history to prescribe the right medication. Always follow the instructions and report any side effects promptly.

How soon after treatment can I have sex again?

You should avoid sexual activity until you and your partner(s) have completed treatment and symptoms have resolved. This usually means waiting at least 7 days after finishing antibiotics to prevent reinfection or spreading the infection.

Can I get trichomoniasis more than once?

Yes, it is possible to get trichomoniasis again if you are exposed to the parasite from an untreated partner or a new partner. Using condoms and ensuring partners are treated can reduce this risk.

Do I need to inform my sexual partners if I have trichomoniasis?

Yes, informing your sexual partners is important so they can get tested and treated. This helps prevent reinfection and further spread of the infection.

Sources

1. Trichomoniasis - CDC Fact Sheet — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Trichomoniasis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Trichomoniasis - Mayo Clinic — Mayo Clinic.
4. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) — World Health Organization (WHO).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. If you experience severe symptoms or emergency signs, seek immediate medical care.