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Trichomoniasis in Children

Trichomoniasis is one of the most common types of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Trichomoniasis in children, including adolescents who have this illness, often do not know they do until it has been diagnosed and in many cases, they may have little or no symptoms at all. Individuals who have multiple sexual partners may increase their chances of getting this STD. It is treated with oral antibiotics. Reducing the number of sexual partners, abstinence and using condoms are several ways to reduce the risk of getting this infection.

  1. About

    • Trichomoniasis is also called "trich." According to the Larissa Hatch, MD of Children's Hospital in Aurora, Colorado, it is one of the most common STDs found in sexually active individuals. Trichomoniasis is a bacterial infection that is transmitted through sexual contact from one person to another. Most commonly, this occurs through sexual intercourse and penetration sex. Frequently, females are diagnosed more often than men because the symptoms are more obvious in females than in males. Getting trich can also make a person more susceptible to getting the HIV virus that causes AIDS.

    Symptoms

    • According to KidsHealth, the symptoms of trich can appear within four days of infection. In many cases, an individual may not have or notice the symptoms of trichomoniasis. In females the symptoms of trichomoniasis include increased yellow or frothy vaginal discharge, itching, foul odor and soreness in the labia or inner thighs. In males, the symptoms can include a burning sensation when urination, mild urethral itching, pain and inflammation of the scrotum and groin area and frothy or yellowish discharge from the penis.

    Treatment

    • Dr. Hatch states that trichomoniasis is treated with prescription antibiotics. A doctor will conduct an examination and swab the vagina or penis to determine if a person is infected. Usually, the results are back in a few days or less. Medication is prescribed and usually requires taking all of the antibiotics for one or two weeks. The most common medication prescribed is Flagyl. It is important to inform all sexual partners that they may need treatment, since many people do not have symptoms alerting them to possible infection.

    Prevention

    • Dr. Hatch indicates that the best way to prevent trichomoniasis in children is through abstinence or not having sex at all. However, if a person is going to be sexually active, then using latex condoms is the next best method of prevention. It is important to also limit the number of sexual partners, since the more sexual partners a person has, the more increased opportunity for getting an STD. Additionally, females should be aware that douching after sex and actually increase the potential for getting an STD and trichomoniasis in particular.

    Talking to Teens About Sex

    • It can be difficult for parents to talk about sex to their adolescent children. However, it is an important topic, particularly when it comes to discussing potential problem issues like pregnancy or STDs. Dr. Hatch indicates that because trichomoniasis is one of the most common STDs and often has little to no noticeable symptoms in both males and females, it is important to talk to teens about regular testing for STDs if they choose to be sexually active. Encourage teens to attend regular doctor appointments that include STD screening and to use latex condoms.

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