Sexual Health Services | Hauora a Toi Bay of Plenty

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is caused by a small parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. Worldwide it is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases (STD’s) but in New Zealand it is uncommon.
The infection is most common amongst sexually active females between 16 – 35 years. It is caught during sexual contact with an infected person.
Trichomonas can be called ‘Trich” for short (sounds like trike).

Symptoms usually develop 1-4 weeks after contact. 
In women symptoms include vaginal discharge which is greenish, frothy and watery with an unpleasant ‘fishy’ smell. The skin around the vagina and vulva is uncomfortable, hot and swollen with redness and inflammation that can extend onto the upper thighs. Itching or pain when urinating can also occur.
In males it can cause a discharge from the penis and discomfort when urinating. Sometimes it produces an inflammation of the head of the penis (balanitis). Men usually don’t have symptoms and can act as carriers.

A swab of vaginal fluid can be sent to a laboratory where the organism can be detected by culture or other methods.
Trichomonas in males is very difficult to identify. Male partners are always treated.

Antibiotic tablets have about a 90 percent cure rate.

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https://www.healthpoint.co.nz/public/sexual-health/sexual-health-services-hauora-a-toi-bay-of/