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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
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).
Tests for trichomoniasis
If you have symptoms, see your health
care provider for a correct diagnosis
since a physical examination and a laboratory
test must be performed to diagnose the
infection. The parasite is harder to detect in men than in women. General tips
for women to help their provider find out what they may have include:
- 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
- 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.
How do I learn more about Trichomoniasis?
To learn
more about Trichomoniasis and
other STIs call:
- American
Social Health Association (ASHA)
http://www.ashastd.org
1-800-783-9877
This line plays recordings about
STI information 24 hrs a day and
has health communication specialists
available to answer questions between
9am and 6pm, ET, Monday through Friday.
- Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC)
http://www.cdc.gov/std/
1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636)
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