Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is the most common sexually transmitted infection worldwide, and it often doesn’t cause any symptoms.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a very common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is caused by a parasite.

Although trichomoniasis is the most common STI, less than a third of patients have symptoms.

Causes of trichomoniasis

• A parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis causes trichomoniasis, and it is transmitted by unprotected intercourse with an infected person.
• In most of the cases, trichomoniasis infects the lower genital tract. In men, it affects the urethra, and in women, it affects the vagina, the vulva, the cervix, and the urethra.

Symptoms of trichomoniasis

Symptoms of trichomoniasis start to appear within 5-28 days after getting infected.

Symptoms in women:

• Vaginal discharge that might be foamy with a foul smell and white, yellow, or greenish color.
• Itchiness, burning, and painful feelings.
• Pain and discomfort while urinating and having intercourse.

Symptoms in men are rare, and they could include:

• Burning and pain while urinating and ejaculating.
• Irritation or itchiness inside the penis.
• A discharge from the penis that might be clear or pus-like.

Complications of trichomoniasis

• Trichomoniasis increases the risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and transmitting the infection to the fetus in pregnant women.
• Trichomoniasis increases the risk of having HIV, cystitis, prostatitis, epididymitis (inflammation of the coiled tube behind and above the testicles), and cancers in the cervix or prostate.

Diagnosis of trichomoniasis

• Physical exam.
• Lab tests.

Treatment of trichomoniasis

• Trichomoniasis is curable with antibiotics.