Unlike most sexually transmitted diseases, trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite rather than by bacteria or a virus. The trichomoniasis parasite can be present in the vagina for years without causing symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms
If they do occur, typical symptoms for women include vaginal itching and
burning, a greenish-yellow vaginal discharge, and burning or pain when urinating. Sexual
intercourse can be painful. In men, symptoms include mild itching and irritation of the
penis, pain during intercourse, and discomfort when urinating. Men who have trichomoniasis
usually don't experience any symptoms. They may infect their sexual partners and not know
it.
Trichomoniasis is diagnosed by examining a drop of vaginal fluid under a microscope.
Treatment
The oral medication metronidazole (brand name Flagyl), is used to treat
trichomoniasis. If you're a woman, don't take this drug during the first three months of
pregnancy. Avoid drinking alcohol for 24 hours before, during, and 24 hours after taking
the metronidazole. The combination causes vomiting, dizziness, and headaches.
Sexual partners of an infected person should also be treated to prevent getting infected again or spreading the infection further.
| For Men: Do you have any of these problems?  Discomfort when urinating Pain during intercourse Irritation and itching of the penis |
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| For Women: Do you have any of these problems? Itching and burning around the
vagina A greenish-yellow vaginal discharge Burning or pain when urinating |
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| For Men and Women: Are you suspicious of having contracted trichomoniasis or another sexually transmitted disease from someone you suspect may be infected? |
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| Do you want to rule out the presence of Trichomoniasis or other
sexually transmitted diseases for any of these reasons: Because you or your sex partner
have had multiple sex partners Because you are considering a new sexual
relationship Because you are planning to get married or
pregnant For peace of mind |
|
There's only one way to guarantee you'll
never get a sexually transmitted disease: Never have sex.
Limiting your sexual activity to one person
your entire life is a close second, provided your partner is also monogamous and does not
have a sexually transmitted disease.
Avoid sexual contact with persons whose
health status and practices are not known.
Avoid sex if either partner has signs and
symptoms of a genital tract infection.
Don't have sex while under the influence of
drugs or alcohol (except in a monogamous relationship in which neither partner is infected
with an STD).
Discuss a new partner's sexual history with
him or her before beginning a sexual relationship. (Be aware, though, that persons are not
always honest about their sexual history.)
Latex condoms can reduce the spread of
sexual diseases when used properly and carefully and for every sex act. They do not
eliminate the risk entirely. Unless they are in a monogamous relationship in which neither
partner has an STD, both women and men should carry latex condoms and insist that they be
used every time they have sexual relations.
Using spermicidal foams, jellies, creams
(especially those that contain Nonoxynol-9), and a diaphragm can offer additional
protection when used with a condom. Use water-based lubricants such as K-Y Brand Jelly.
Don't use oil-based or "petroleum" ones such as Vaseline. They can damage latex
condoms.
Wash the genitals with soap and water
before and after sexual intercourse.
Seek treatment for a sexually transmitted
disease if you know your sex partner is infected.
Ask your doctor to check for STDs every 6
months if you have multiple sex partners, even if you don't have any symptoms.
HEALTH AT HOME - Your Complete Guide to Symptoms, Solutions, and Self-Care © 1999 by Don R. Powell. American Institute for Preventive Medicine.
Date updated 02/01/99