[Question #6710] Trich Test Results
66 months ago
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
66 months ago
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Welcome to the Forum and thanks for your question, as well as your detailed description of events and test results. Trichomoniasis is a poorly understood STI. The tests you had were the standard of care until the past few years when more sensitive PCR-type tests for trichomonas became available. With the more sensitive tests we have become aware that microscopy for diagnosis of trichomonas detected only about 60% of infections so indeed an infection might have been unlikely. The encounter you describe however is rather low risk for infection. As for much with this infection, understanding is still evolving however we do know that most men do not have trich, that most exposure do not lead to infection and that non-penetrative exposures are far less likely to result in infection than penetrative sex. Thus, while it is possible that trich could be the cause of your current symptoms, it is really not very likely. Given your level of concern, it may be worthwhile to find a health care provider who can perform a PCR-type test on a vaginal swab for trich. I suspect the test will be negative but the peace of mind may be worth it.
I hope that this information is helpful. EWH
66 months ago
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66 months ago
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
66 months ago
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The reason for my more cautious reply to your question regarding trichomoniasis is that while gonorrhea and chlamydia are pathogens which must reach the cervix of the uterus to cause infection, trichomonas can infect the vaginal and, as a result, has a slightly higher chance of being transmitted through non-penetrative exposure with frottage (genital rubbing and apposition).
If your urine test is positive for bacteria. then it is more likely than not that you have a UTI and do not have trich.
The fact that you had just taken the medication for trichomoniasis will not effect the results of your trich test taken immediately after.
Hope this is helpful. EWH