Trichomoniasis (Trich)
What is Trichomoniasis?
- Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a very small parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis, called ‘Trich’ for short (sounds like trike).
- Worldwide, it is one of the commonest sexually transmitted infections (STIs) but it is uncommon in New Zealand.
- The infection is most commonly diagnosed in sexually active females between 16-35 years.
- It is caught during sexual contact with an infected person.
- It can be passed by using sex toys e.g. vibrators.
How do I know if have Trichomoniasis?
- Symptoms usually develop 1-4 weeks after contact with an infected person.
- Symptoms in women can include:
- A copious, greenish, frothy, watery vaginal discharge with an unpleasant ‘fishy’ smell
- The opening to the vagina, and vulva can be uncomfortable, hot or swollen with redness and inflammation that can extend onto the upper thighs. This can lead to discomfort when walking
- Itching or pain when passing urine can also occur
- Many women are infected without symptoms.
- Symptoms in men can include:
- Some men may experience a discharge from the penis and discomfort when passing urine
- Sometimes it produces an inflammation of the head of the penis (balanitis)
- However, usually most men do not have symptoms and act as carriers of the infection.
How is it Diagnosed?
- Examination of the vagina is required and a swab of the vaginal fluid can be sent to a laboratory where the organism can be detected by culture or other methods.
- Most sexual health clinics will be able to examine a drop of vaginal fluid under a microscope and see the organism swimming in the discharge to make an instant diagnosis.
- Trichomoniasis is very difficult to identify and diagnose in males. It can be found in urethral swabs or in urine specimens.
- Male partners of female patients with trichomoniasis always need to be treated even if there are no symptoms.
How is it Treated?
- Trichomoniasis is treated by antibiotic tablets which can be given either as a single dose or as a 7 day course.
- It has about a 90 percent cure rate.
- Treatment sometimes causes mild nausea or an upset stomach. You can reduce these side effects by taking the tablets with food.
- Avoid alcohol during treatment and for 24 hrs afterwards or a severe hangover may result.
- Some people experience an unpleasant taste in the mouth when taking the medication. This disappears soon after the treatment is completed.
Is there any Long Term Damage?
- As far is known, trichomoniasis does not cause any long term damage to internal organs and does not cause pelvic inflammatory disease.
- A few women however suffer from recurrent trichomoniasis even after their sexual partners have been treated.
- For those with persistent trichomoniasis, an assessment by a sexual health specialist is advised.
Where to go for Treatment?
- Sexual health clinics specialise in screening and treating all sexually transmitted infections. They are a free and confidential service.
- Your family doctor and Family Planning Clinics are also able to treat trichomoniasis and other STIs.
This information is not intended to replace the need for a consultation with your doctor. All clients are strongly advised to check with their doctor about any specific questions or concerns they may have. Every effort has been taken to ensure that this information is correct at the time of publishing (March 2009). Acknowledgement to Auckland Sexual Health Service for use of this material.
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