Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a parasite and passed from person to person during sex. Many people have no symptoms; when they appear, it is usually 5 to 28 days after infection.
Symptoms
In women it can cause vaginitis:
- yellow-green or grey vaginal discharge;
- discomfort during sex;
- vaginal odour;
- painful urination;
- itching, burning and soreness of the vagina and vulva.
Most men have no symptoms. Those who do may have itching or irritation inside the penis, burning after urinating or ejaculating, or a discharge from the penis.
Why it matters
- It raises the risk of catching or passing on other STIs.
- Pregnant women who have it are more likely to give birth early, and their babies are more likely to have a low birth weight.
Testing and treatment
Lab tests can show whether you have it, and it is treated with antibiotics. If you are infected, you and your partner must both be treated.
Prevention
Using latex condoms correctly greatly reduces the risk of catching or spreading trichomoniasis, though not completely; if you or your partner is allergic to latex, polyurethane condoms can be used. The most reliable way to avoid infection is not to have anal, vaginal or oral sex.
Sources
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, "Trichomoniasis," from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://medlineplus.gov/trichomoniasis.html
- Rewritten in hubnx's own words.
Licence: CC0 1.0 (public domain) · Adapted from medlineplus.gov
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