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Trichomoniasis

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Normal uterine anatomy (cut section)
Normal uterine anatomy (cut section)

Alternative Names    Return to top

Trichomonas vaginitis; Trich

Definition    Return to top

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis.

Causes    Return to top

Trichomoniasis is found worldwide. In the United States, the highest number of cases are seen in women between age 16 and 35. Trichomonas vaginalis is spread through penis-to-vagina intercourse or vulva-to-vulva contact with an infected partner. The parasite cannot survive in the mouth or rectum.

The disease can affect both men and women, but the symptoms differ between the two groups. The infection usually does not cause symptoms in men and goes away on its own in a few weeks.

Symptoms    Return to top

Women:

Men:

Occasionally, some men with trichomoniasis may develop prostatitis or epididymitis from the infection.

Exams and Tests    Return to top

In women:

A pelvic examination reveals red blotches vaginal wall or cervix. A wet prep (microscopic examination of discharge) shows the infection-causing organisms in vaginal fluids. A pap smear may also diagnose the condition.

In men:

The disease can be hard to diagnose in men. Men are treated if the infection is diagnosed in any of their sexual partners. Men may also be treated if they have ongoing symptoms of urethral burning or itching despite treatment for gonorrhea and chlamydia.

Treatment    Return to top

The antibiotic metronidazole is commonly used to cure the infection. An alternative drug is called Tinidazole You should not drink alcohol while taking the medicine and for 48 hours afterwards. Doing so can cause severe nausea and vomiting.

Avoid sexual intercourse until treatment has been completed. Sexual partners should be treated at the same time, even if they have no symptoms.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

With proper treatment, the outcome is likely to be excellent.

Possible Complications    Return to top

Long-term infection may cause changes in the tissue on the cervical surface. These changes may be seen on a routine Pap smear. In such cases, treatment should be started and the Pap smear repeated 3 to 6 months later.

Treatment of trichomoniasis helps prevents the spread of the disease to sexual partners. Trichomoniasis is common among persons with HIV.

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if any unusual vaginal discharge or irritation is noted.

Also call for an appointment if you suspect that you have been exposed to the disease.

Prevention    Return to top

A monogamous sexual relationship with a known healthy partner can help reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases, including trichomoniasis.

Other than total abstinence, condoms remain the best and most reliable protection against sexually transmitted diseases. Condoms must be used consistently and correctly.

References    Return to top

Van Vranken M. Prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases: An update. American Family Physician. 2007 Dec;76(12).

Update Date: 9/28/2008

Updated by: Jatin M. Vyas, PHD, MD, Instructor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Assistant in Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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