Trichomoniasis (or “trich”) is a very common sexually transmitted infection (STI). Symptoms of this condition vary but when diagnosed, and correctly treated, cure is possible and complications can be prevented.
What causes trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis is caused by infection with a protozoan parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. This parasite spreads really easily during sex. Symptoms of trichomoniasis usually develop within a month of infection. Although symptoms of the disease vary, most people who have the parasite cannot tell they are infected.
Trichomoniasis is not thought to be passed on through:
• kissing or hugging
• sharing cups, plates or cutlery
• toilet seats
The best way to prevent trichomoniasis is to have safer sex. This means always using a condom when having sex, covering any sex toys you use with a condom, and washing sex toys after use.
What are some symptoms of trichomoniasis?
The symptoms of trichomoniasis are similar to those of many other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) so it can sometimes be difficult to diagnose.
Symptoms in women
Trichomoniasis in women can cause any of the following symptoms:
• abnormal vaginal discharge that may be thick, thin or frothy and yellow-green in colour
• producing more discharge than normal, which may also have an unpleasant fishy smell
• soreness, inflammation (swelling) and itching around the vagina – sometimes the inner thighs also become itchy
• pain or discomfort when passing urine or having sex
Symptoms in men
Trichomoniasis in men can cause any of the following symptoms:
• pain during urination or ejaculation
• needing to urinate more frequently than usual
• thin white discharge from the penis
• soreness, swelling and redness around the head of the penis (balanitis) or foreskin (balano-posthitis)
Diagnosis and treatment
If you develop any of the symptoms of trichomoniasis, or if you think you may be infected, please see your healthcare provider.
Trichomoniasis can usually be diagnosed after an examination of the genitals – and a laboratory test carried out on a swab taken from the vagina or penis.
If the test shows you have trichomoniasis, it is important that your current sexual partner and any other recent partners are also tested and treated.
Trichomoniasis is unlikely to go away without treatment, but it can be effectively treated with antibiotics.
It is important to complete the whole course of antibiotics, and avoid having sex until the infection clears up, to prevent reinfection.
Your current sexual partner and any other recent partners should also be treated.
Complications of trichomoniasis
Complications of trichomoniasis are rare, although some women with the infection may be at an increased risk of further problems.
If you are infected with trichomoniasis while you are pregnant, the infection may cause your baby to be either:
• born prematurely (before the 37th week of pregnancy)
• have a low birth weight
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection and all individuals with this condition should also be screened for other common sexually transmitted infections. Some of these might have more severe complications if untreated.
Conclusion
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) which is most often spread through sex. About 70% of women and men do not have symptoms when infected. When symptoms do occur they typically begin 5 to 28 days after exposure. Cure is possible with the use of antibiotics. If you have symptoms, or think you were exposed, you should visit your doctor so that a correct diagnosis can be made and you can be successfully treated.
Ask Your Dr is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. The reader should consult his or her physician for specific information concerning specific medical conditions. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all information presented is accurate, as research and development in the medical field are ongoing, it is possible that new findings may supersede some data presented.
Dr Brett Hodge MB BS DGO MRCOG is an obstetrician/Gynaecologist and Family Doctor with over thirty-five years in clinical practice. Dr Brett Hodge has a medical practice in The Johnson Building in The Valley (Tel: 264 497 5928).
