What is Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is caused by a protozoan parasite, Trichomonas vaginalis. The parasite most commonly infects the vagina. In men the most common site of infection is the urethra. It can be transmitted between men and women and between two women. Exposure to an infected site is needed to transmit the illness.¹

Most of the time men do not experience any side effects. If any symptoms are present in men, they may include: temporarily irritation inside the penis, mild discharge, or slight burning post- urination or ejaculation.¹

Women may or may not have symptoms. When women do experience symptoms, they may include: a strong smelling, frothy, yellow-green vaginal discharge; discomfort during intercourse and urination; irritation and itching of the genital region; and lower abdominal pain.¹

Trichomoniasis can increase a women's chance of contracting HIV from an HIV positive partner. It can also increase her chance of transmitting HIV to her partner. This is because of the inflammation of the genital region caused by the parasite. Pregnant women who have trichomoniasis are more likely to have a premature birth and a baby with a lower birth weight.¹

To diagnose trichomoniasis, doctors perform a visual inspection and perform lab testing. It is more difficult to diagnose in men than women.

Treating the condition is relatively simple. Either metronidazole or tinidazole can cure trichomoniasis in a single dose. Both partners should be treated and abstain from sex until the infection is gone to keep from spreading it back and forth.¹

Men are more likely to unknowingly spread the disease, especially if a past female partner was infected and never notified him after she found out. Men can spread the disease as long as they remain untreated, so it is important for women to share information about the illness even though they may be embarrassed to do so. It will save other women from contracting it from him, since he most likely will not develop symptoms.¹

Using a male condom reduces the risk of spreading trichomoniasis. Being abstinent or in a monogamous relationship with a trusted partner are surer ways of preventing the illness.¹

Any unfamiliar symptom in the genital area should be discussed with a healthcare provider, as many STDs have similar symptoms. While some STDs mostly cause minor symptoms, they are often similar to symptoms caused by more serious STDs. The only way to definitively diagnose these conditions is via medical examination and testing.

Sources:

¹Trichomoniasis- CDC Fact Sheet, http://cdc.gov/std/trichomonas/STDFact-Trichomoniasis.htm