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

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for trichomoniasis, you may receive instructions for testing and treatment to help clear the infection. Trichomoniasis is a common infection caused by a parasite and often spreads through sexual contact. During your tele-visit, a healthcare provider will discuss symptoms and may recommend a lab test, which usually involves a urine sample or swab. If the test is positive, treatment typically includes antibiotics that you take by mouth. It is important to complete all medication as directed and avoid sexual activity until treatment is finished and your healthcare provider confirms the infection is gone. Follow-up care may be needed to ensure the infection has cleared. Your healthcare provider can also offer advice on preventing future infections and discuss the importance of notifying sexual partners. Telemedicine can help with education, testing guidance, and treatment plans but cannot perform physical exams or provide emergency care. Always seek in-person care if you have severe symptoms or concerns.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe lower abdominal or pelvic pain — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) with chills — contact a healthcare provider urgently.
• Heavy vaginal bleeding or unusual discharge with a foul smell — get in-person medical evaluation soon.

What telemedicine can do

• Providing education about trichomoniasis
• Guiding patients on testing procedures
• Prescribing antibiotics when appropriate
• Offering advice on medication use and follow-up care

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations
• Collecting laboratory specimens directly
• Managing severe or emergency symptoms
• Providing immediate in-person interventions

Understanding Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a common infection caused by a tiny parasite. It often spreads through sexual contact. Many people may not have symptoms, but when they do, symptoms can include itching, burning, or unusual discharge. It is important to get tested and treated to avoid complications and spreading the infection to others.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine visit, your healthcare provider may recommend testing to confirm if you have trichomoniasis. This usually involves providing a urine sample or a swab from the affected area. If the test is positive, you will likely receive a prescription for antibiotics. You should take all the medicine exactly as directed, even if symptoms improve quickly.

Treatment and Care

Treatment commonly involves a single dose or a short course of antibiotics taken by mouth. Avoid sexual activity until you and your partner(s) have completed treatment and your provider confirms the infection is cleared. Notify any recent sexual partners so they can also get tested and treated if needed. This helps prevent reinfection.

Follow-Up and Prevention

Your healthcare provider may suggest a follow-up test to make sure the infection is gone, usually a few weeks after treatment. To prevent future infections, use protection during sexual activity and have open conversations with partners about sexual health. Regular check-ups and testing can help maintain your health.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If you experience severe pain, fever, heavy bleeding, or symptoms that worsen or do not improve after treatment, seek in-person medical care promptly. Telemedicine is not able to perform physical exams or urgent interventions needed in these cases.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have a private and quiet space for your telemedicine visit.
• Be ready to discuss your symptoms and medical history honestly.
• Have a list of current medications and allergies available.
• Prepare questions you want to ask your healthcare provider.
• Ensure you have access to a device with a camera and microphone for the visit.
• Know where you can get laboratory tests done if recommended.

After your tele-visit

• Complete the full course of prescribed antibiotics as directed.
• Avoid sexual activity until treatment is complete and cleared by your provider.
• Notify recent sexual partners so they can get tested and treated if needed.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up tests or visits.
• Watch for any worsening symptoms or side effects from medication.
• Practice safe sex and regular health check-ups to prevent reinfection.

FAQs

How long does it take for treatment to work?

Treatment for trichomoniasis often works quickly, usually within a few days after taking antibiotics. However, it's important to finish all your medication even if symptoms improve sooner.

Can I get trichomoniasis again after treatment?

Yes, it is possible to get infected again if exposed to an untreated partner. Using protection during sex and ensuring partners are treated helps prevent reinfection.

Is testing always needed after treatment?

Follow-up testing may be recommended to confirm the infection is gone, especially if symptoms continue. Your healthcare provider will advise if this is necessary.

Can my parents be involved in my care?

Healthcare providers respect your privacy but may encourage involving trusted adults for support. You can discuss confidentiality during your telemedicine visit.

What if I have side effects from the medication?

Mild side effects like nausea or headache can happen. If side effects are severe or you have an allergic reaction, seek medical help promptly.

Sources

1. Trichomoniasis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Trichomoniasis - MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Trichomoniasis Treatment and Care — 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 care. If you have severe symptoms, emergencies, or concerns, please seek immediate medical attention from a healthcare professional.