Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) Slideshow Pictures

Medical Author:

Andrew K Chang, MD

Medical Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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Exams and Tests

The diagnosis is made by directly observing the trichomonads through a microscope (they are too small to be seen by the naked eye).

• Trichomonads are pear-shaped and have several flagella (whiplike tails) at one end.
  
  
• This lab test is usually ordered only if the doctor suspects trichomoniasis as a possible diagnosis.
  
  
• In some cases, the doctor may have to send the sample to the laboratory, and the result may not come back right away.
  
  
• The doctor will collect the specimen during a pelvic examination.
  
  
  • The doctor inserts a speculum into the vagina and then uses a cotton-tipped applicator to collect a sample.
    
    
  • The sample is then placed onto a microscope slide and sent to the laboratory to be analyzed.
    
    
  • Trichomonads are seen rarely during urine testing.
  
  
• A diagnosis of trichomoniasis usually prompts a search for other sexually transmitted diseases, such as syphilis, HIV, gonorrhea, or chlamydia.