General STD Question

[Louis10]

Doc,  I posted this earlier on the patient to patient forum but think that it's probably more appropriate for you. Facts follow:
In monogamous relationship for 5+ years with girlfriend (both early 50

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

The UTI is just a coincidence.  UTIs in women often are associated with sex, but not because of sexual transmission of bacteria from the partner.  Instead, sex can 'massage' vaginal area bacteria into the urinary opening.  If E. coli or similar organisms are present, UTI can result.  If her provider diagnosed a typical UTI, there is no reason to suspect STD.  Azithromycin is not active against trichomonas, but you can't catch trich by oral sex, or chlamydia for that matter (the main STD for which azithromycin in prescribed).  However, the dose you received would effectively prevent the rare case of chlamydia or of nongonococcal urethritis (NGU), which can be caused by normal oral bacteria.

Bottom line:  There are no significant STD worries here.

Best wishes--  HHH, MD

[Louis10]

A quick follow-up, please.  Is it likely to pick up a trich infection from vaginal intercouse a year ago from a third party and pass it back and forth between my girlfriend without either of us having symptons for the entire year?  Could that account for her asymtomatic UTI?  Thanks.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Trichomonas and UTI are not likely to be confused with one another, although it is possible.  Even without treatment, trich in men probably always clears up within a year.  Deal with the possibilty of trich if your provider diagnoses it in your partner.