Trichomonas Vaginalis Information, Testing and Treatment

Trichomonas is caused by a small organism called a protozoan, a little like a bacterium which can infect the genital region; this can include the urethra and vagina in women, and the urethra and less commonly the prostate gland in men. It is less common that other bacterial and viral infections however as with other sexually transmitted infections, untreated trichomonas infection during pregnancy increases the risk of having complications, in this case an early labour and a baby with a low birth weight. The infection usually stays in the genital area, and hence may not be as serious as other sexually transmitted infections

Trichomonas infection is usually passed on by having sex with someone who has the infection or sharing sex toys. Symptoms only occur in about half of infected men and women so this infection can be passed on and contracted "silently".

Symptoms - Women

Where symptoms are present, a vaginal discharge is common. This is typically greenish-yellow, and may be described as 'frothy'. It may have an unpleasant or what is sometimes described as a fishy smell. Other symptoms may include itching and discomfort in the vagina and vulval area, sometimes the irritation extends into the groin region. Passing urine may be uncomfortable and pain and discomfort may be experienced on sexual intercourse.

Symptoms - Men

In men, where symptoms are present, irritation inside the penis may increase the urgency to pass urine. A discharge may be apparent from the penis and soreness a further common problem.

Testing and Treatment

This is done by taking a swab (using a cotton bud) from the vagina or penis. This is sent to the laboratory to be tested. Trichomonas is sometimes detected when a routine smear test is done. A urine sample is also useful to detect infection in men.

Metronidazole is the most common antibiotic that is used. More than nine out of ten infections clear with a short course of this antibiotic treatment. Treatment is straightforward, the usual dose is a 400 mg tablet twice a day for five to seven days. A single dose of two grams is an alternative, although this may be less effective and may cause more side-effects. Tinidazole, a similar type of antibiotic is sometimes also used. In some cases the infection may clear without treatment, this however may take several weeks, treatment is usually advised in all cases to be sure. Sexual partners should be treated at the same time and sexual intercourse avoided until the treatment is completely and the symptoms cleared.