What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Trichomoniasis - Testing & Treatment Pathway

Audience: adult

After a telemedicine visit for trichomoniasis, you will typically receive guidance on testing and treatment options. Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite. Treatment usually involves prescription medication that can clear the infection. Your healthcare provider may advise you to get tested if you haven't already, and they will explain how to take your medication properly. It is important to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve quickly. You may also be advised to inform recent sexual partners so they can get tested and treated if needed. Follow-up testing may be recommended to ensure the infection is cleared. During this time, avoid sexual contact until treatment is complete to prevent spreading the infection. If you experience worsening symptoms or new concerns, seek in-person care promptly. Telemedicine can help with education, initial evaluation, and treatment planning, but some situations require face-to-face medical attention.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe pelvic or abdominal pain — seek emergency care immediately.
• Fever above 38°C (100.4°F) with worsening symptoms — get urgent medical evaluation.
• Signs of allergic reaction to medication such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing — seek emergency help.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation and education about trichomoniasis.
• Prescribing medication for uncomplicated cases.
• Providing guidance on testing locations and follow-up care.
• Answering questions about symptoms and treatment side effects.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe or worsening symptoms requiring physical examination.
• Complicated infections or co-existing conditions needing in-person tests.
• Pregnancy-related cases needing specialized care.
• Emergency situations such as signs of allergic reaction or severe pain.

Understanding Trichomoniasis and Its Treatment

Trichomoniasis is a common infection caused by a parasite that affects the genital area. It often causes symptoms like itching, burning, or unusual discharge, but some people may have no symptoms at all. The infection is usually treated with antibiotics prescribed by your healthcare provider. Completing the full medication course is important to fully clear the infection and prevent re-infection.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine appointment, your provider may send a prescription to your pharmacy or provide instructions for obtaining medication. If testing was not done before or during your visit, you may be directed to a local clinic or lab for testing. You will receive advice on how to take your medication and what side effects to watch for. Your provider may also discuss notifying sexual partners so they can get tested and treated.

Preventing Spread and Re-infection

To avoid spreading trichomoniasis, it is important to avoid sexual contact until you and your partners have completed treatment. Using condoms can reduce the risk of transmission in the future. Informing recent sexual partners helps stop the infection from cycling back and forth. Follow-up testing may be recommended to confirm the infection is gone.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your symptoms worsen, such as increased pain, fever, or unusual discharge, or if you develop new symptoms like pelvic pain or difficulty urinating, seek in-person medical care promptly. Also, if you are pregnant or have other health conditions, in-person evaluation may be necessary to ensure safe treatment.

Managing Side Effects and Follow-Up

Some people may experience mild side effects from medication, like nausea or headache. These usually improve quickly. If side effects are severe or persistent, contact your healthcare provider. Follow-up testing or visits may be advised to ensure the infection has cleared completely.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List your symptoms and how long you have had them.
• Have your medical history and any current medications ready to discuss.
• Prepare information about recent sexual partners for partner notification advice.
• Ensure you have a private, quiet space for the telemedicine visit.
• Have a way to receive and fill prescriptions, such as a preferred pharmacy contact.

After your tele-visit

• Take all prescribed medication exactly as directed, completing the full course.
• Avoid sexual contact until treatment is finished and partners are treated.
• Inform recent sexual partners so they can seek testing and treatment.
• Watch for side effects or worsening symptoms and report them to your provider.
• Attend any recommended follow-up testing or appointments to confirm cure.

FAQs

How soon will my symptoms improve after treatment?

Symptoms often improve within a few days after starting medication, but it is important to finish all prescribed doses to fully clear the infection.

Can I get trichomoniasis again after treatment?

Yes, re-infection is possible if exposed again. Using condoms and ensuring partners are treated can help prevent this.

Do I need to tell my sexual partners?

Yes, informing recent sexual partners is important so they can get tested and treated, which helps stop the infection from spreading.

Is testing always necessary?

Testing helps confirm the infection and ensures appropriate treatment. Your provider may recommend testing before or after treatment.

Can I take the medication if I am pregnant?

Some medications for trichomoniasis are safe during pregnancy, but you should discuss this with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Sources

1. Trichomoniasis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Trichomoniasis - MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
3. Trichomoniasis: Diagnosis and Treatment — Mayo Clinic.
4. Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines, 2021 — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or concerns, please seek immediate medical attention.