What is trichomoniasis?
How common is trichomoniasis?
Signs and symptoms of trichomoniasis
Tests for trichomoniasis
Treatment for trichomoniasis
Pregnancy and trichomoniasis

What is trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis, sometimes called "trich" (pronounced "trick"), is a common sexually transmitted infection (STi) that affects both women and men, although symptoms are more common in women.

Trichomoniasis is caused by the single-celled protozoan parasite, Trichomonas vaginalis. The vagina is the most common site of infection in women, and the urethra (urine canal) is the most common site of infection in men. The parasite is sexually transmitted through penis-to-vagina intercourse or vulva-to-vulva (the genital area outside the vagina) contact with an infected partner. Women can acquire the disease from infected men or women, but men usually contract it only from infected women.

How common is trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis is the most common curable STI in young, sexually active women. An estimated 7.4 million new cases occur each year in women and men.

Signs and symptoms of trichomoniasis
While trichomoniasis affects both women and men, symptoms are more common in women. Most men with trichomoniasis do not have any signs or symptoms. However, some men may have a temporary irritation inside the penis, mild discharge, or notice a slight burning after peeing (urinating) or ejaculating. Some women may have signs or symptoms which include:

• discharge that is green, yellow or grey
• a bad smell
• itching in or around the vagina
• pain during sex
• pain when peeing (urinating).

• Schedule the exam when you're not having your monthly period.
• Don't douche 24 hours before your exam.
• Don't use vaginal sprays 24 hours before your exam.
• If you have sex less than 24 hours before the exam, use condoms.

A wet mount may be done to determine whether a woman has trichomoniasis. A sample of discharge is put on a slide with saline solution and looked at under a microscope. This can be done in the health care provider's office. The health care provider may examine the pH level of vaginal discharge, since an abnormal pH may be a sign of trichomoniasis.

Treatment for trichomoniasis

• Trichomoniasis is curable with antibiotics
• Metronidazole (Flagyl)
• Use all the medicine prescribed, even if your symptoms go away
• Sex partners must also be treated, or you will get trich again
• Do not have sex until all partners have finished the medication

Pregnancy and trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis can cause babies to be born early or with low birth weight. If you think you may be pregnant be sure to tell your health care provider. Women in the first three months of pregnancy should not take medicine for trich because it might hurt the baby. You can take medicine after the first three months. Talk to your health care provider about them.