Trichomoniasis 

Trichomoniasis is caused by protozoan parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis and is the most common cause of sexually transmitted disease causing vaginal infection. It is transmitted via direct sexual contact. It is one of the organisms causing non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU). 

Patient may not have any symptom but it increases the risk of co-infection with other sexually transmitted diseases such as Gonorrhoea and HIV. Symptom of trichomonas infection  for female range from from copious, yellow-green, frothy vaginal discharge with a fishy odor, vulva itch and irritation and pain on urination. Signs of active infection includes inflammation to the labia leading to redness and swelling to the cervix ('cervicitis') causing red strawberry- alike spots.

In men, it often does not cause symptoms. If a male is symptomatic, the most common presentation is due to inflammation or urethra (causing urethritis) and less commonly inflammation to the epididymis and prostate causing yellowish frothy or purulent penile discharge, pain and frequency when urinating and ejaculation especially in the morning. 

Infection with trichomoniasis can cause adverse complications during pregnancy causing premature rupture of the membrane and miscarriage. The treatment of trichomoniasis is course of antibiotic such as Metronidazole. Prevention of trichomonas infection is by use of condom for protection and avoidance of high risk behaviors such as multiple sex partner and substance abuse.

If you would like get to know more about trichomonas infection or any other STD, talk to our doctor for more information.