Trichomoniasis

What is Trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis ("trich") is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) that affects both women and men.

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease that is spread through penis-to-vagina intercourse or vulva-to-vulva contact with an infected partner. Women can acquire trichomoniasis from infected men or women. Men usually contract it only from infected women.

Trichomoniasis affects about 2 to 3 million Americans every year. The vagina is the most common site of infection in women, and the urethra is the most common site of infection in men. Trichomania can survive on infected objects such as sheets and towels, and could possibly be transmitted by sharing those objects.

What Causes Trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is caused by infection with a flagellated protozoan. The protozoan is called Trichomonas vaginalis.

What are the Symptoms of Trichomoniasis?

Many people with trichomoniasis experience no symptoms. The symptoms differ between women and men.

Symptoms for women are:

• itching
• burning
• vaginal or vulval redness
• unusual vaginal discharge
• frequent and/or painful urination
• discomfort during intercourse
• abdominal pain

Symptoms tend to worsen after menstruation. Symptoms usually appear within 5 to 28 days of exposure in women.

Symptoms for men are:

• unusual penile discharge
• painful urination
• tingling inside the penis

How is Trichomoniasis diagnosed?

Secretions from the penis or vagina are tested to see if trichomonas are present. The parasite is harder to detect in men than in women.

Can Trichomoniasis be Treated?

Yes. Trichomoniasis can be treated with antibiotics prescribed by your doctor. Persons being treated for trichomoniasis should avoid sex until they and their sex partners complete treatment and have no symptoms.

If you have recently been treated or are being treated for trichomoniasis, you must make sure your sex partner also receives treatment in order to prevent getting infected again. Your sex partners should receive treatment even if they do not have any symptoms.

Prevention of Trichomoniasis

Condoms provide some protection. Not having sex is the best prevention technique.

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