Patient's question:
Since I went swimming in the swimming pool a few days ago last year, I've been experiencing severe itching in my external genital area, abnormal vaginal discharge with a grayish color, and a very strong odor. Intercourse with my husband has been painful. When I went to the hospital for a check-up, they said I had trichomoniasis of the external genitalia.Doctor's answer:
Hello! The incubation period of this disease is 4 to 28 days, and the vaginal mucosa may have red small granules or petechiae. There is a large amount of yellow-green or gray frothy discharge from the vagina, with a foul odor. Sometimes it is mixed with a small amount of blood or is purulent, and the discharge irritates the external genitalia, causing itching. The external genitalia become red, or even inflammatory ulcers may appear. Some are caused by moisture and friction and can spread to the groin folds. Pain during intercourse, along with symptoms such as dysuria and urinary frequency, may occur.What are the symptoms of trichomoniasis vulvitis? The main symptoms of trichomoniasis vulvitis are increased leukorrhea, with secretions ranging from white to green, homogeneous, sometimes purulent, relatively thin, foul-smelling, foamy, and sometimes mixed with blood when the condition is severe. The second symptom is vulvar itching, which is particularly noticeable around the vaginal opening and external genitalia, accompanied by a burning sensation and pain during intercourse. Menstrual disorders are less common.
Based on the symptoms and signs of trichomoniasis vulvitis, this disease is not difficult to diagnose. Confirmation requires identifying the vaginal trichomonas. Vaginal secretions can be examined using the wet mount method, and active trichomonads can be observed under a microscope. Staining smears may also reveal them. Culturing may be performed if necessary. Trichomoniasis affects vaginal cells, so it should be differentiated from malignant tumors. Vaginal cytology may be performed after treatment if needed.