Trichomoniasis

WHAT IS TRICHOMONIASIS?

Trichomoniasis, or trich, is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a one-cell parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. It is more common in females, where it usually infects the vagina, cervix, urethra, bladder, and glands in the genital area. About 20% of sexually active females will develop trich. In males, it infects the urethra or under the foreskin. Untreated trich can lead to complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility. Trich during pregnancy increases the risk of preterm delivery.

What are the Symptoms of Trichomoniasis?

Trich often does not have any symptoms. Females may notice excess vaginal discharge that can be yellow, grey-green, and/or foamy. Discharge may have a fishy odour. Vaginal itching and irritation can occur, as well as pain during sexual intercourse. Males rarely have symptoms of trich infection, but may experience abnormal discharge from the penis or a burning feeling after urination. Symptoms usually appear a week after infection, but it can take up to a month for symptoms to appear.

HOW IS TRICHOMONIASIS DIAGNOSED?

Trich is diagnosed by a physical examination and lab tests. In females, a physician may obtain a swab of vaginal discharge to be tested for trich. Sometimes, the trich parasite can be identified by a routine Pap test. Trich is detected in males by urine test or urethral swab. 

HOW IS TRICHOMONIASIS TREATED?

Trich is usually treated with metronidazole, an antiprotozoal medicine that kills the trich parasite. Your sex partner(s) should also be treated to reduce the chance of reinfection. Avoid sex during treatment and at least 1 week after treatment. Some strains of trich may be resistant to antiprotozoal medicines and require an increased dose of metronidazole. To prevent trich, practice safer sex by limiting your sex partners, knowing whether your partner engages in risky sexual behaviours, and use a barrier contraception method (like condoms) during sex.