A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W

TRICHOMONIASIS

What is Trichomoniasis ?

Trichomoniasis is an infection with Trichomonas vaginalis . In spite of its name this germ infects both men and women. However, it is much more common in women. Trichomoniasis (TV) can cause infection of the vagina (front passage), the urethra (water passage) and bladder in women. The skin around the vagina, which is called the vulva, may also be involved. In men TV causes urethritis ( discharge from the penis and pain passing water). It can also result in a rash on the head of the penis and around the foreskin. Both these conditions tend to resolve very quickly. Women may notice an increase in vaginal discharge which is thin and yellow and has a fishy smell. The area inside and around the vagina may become red, irritable and sore. This can lead to pain on sexual intercourse. There may be pain on passing water and you may wish to go more frequently. Up to half of men and women may have no symptoms.

How does Trichomoniasis occur ?

Trichomoniasis is almost always caught after having sexual intercourse with an infected person. Symptoms develop 4 days to 4 weeks after contact.

Why does Trichomoniasis occur ?

The risk of catching trichomoniasis increases with the number of sexual partners. It is passed on very easily so once infected, it is highly likely that the partner(s) will also be infected. Using a condom during sexual intercourse offers good, but not complete protection.

Treatment involved for Trichomoniasis

Usually your GP will refer you to a department of genito-urinary medicine (special clinic, STD clinic). If infection is suspected, a visit to the local clinic without a referral letter is possible. The address of the clinic can be found in the telephone book. INVESTIGATIONS A provisional diagnosis is made after looking at a specimen of discharge under the microscope. To confirm infection, a specimen of discharge is also sent to the laboratory to be cultured. Results are back within 1 week. You will be screened for other sexually transmitted diseases at the same time. TREATMENT Trichomoniasis can be cured with metronidazole which is taken as a course of oral tablets or in one large dose of tablets. It can be given as a vaginal pessary but tends to be less effective this way. It is essential that current sexual partner(s) are seen and treated.

During treatment for Trichomoniasis

Symptoms usually resolve within a week. It is common to get some nausea when taking the tablets, which taste horrible. It is best to take the tablets after meals. Alcohol must be avoided whilst taking the tablets as it reacts with metronidazole to cause vomiting. Although there is no evidence of harm, pregnant women should avoid metronidazole during the first 3 months of pregnancy. Alternative treatments are available in this situation. Specimens will be taken again after treatment to ensure that infection has cleared. It is essential not to have sexual intercourse until after these tests are taken and the results are known to be negative.

After Treatment

Protection from trichomoniasis does not occur as a result of infection. It is possible to catch it again from an infected or untreated partner. Using a condom with casual partners will protect from subsequent infection.

If Trichomoniasis is left untreated

If trichomoniasis is not treated, then symptoms may settle on their own. Usually symptoms will continue to cause discomfort. Sexual partner(s) would also become infected.

Effects on the family of Trichomoniasis

Your sexual partners are the only people (other than your doctor) who need to know about the infection. It is the responsibility of the infected person to inform them. Any information given to the doctor is treated in the strictest confidence. He or she is not allowed to pass this on to your partner.