by Jane Brunton

Created on: July 11, 2008   Last Updated: July 16, 2008

Trichomoniasis, also known as trich is caused by a single-celled protozoan parasite, Trichomonas vaginalis. In women the vagina is the site of infection while in men it is the urethra.

This sexually transmitted disease (STD) may be contracted via penis-to-vagina intercourse or vulva-to-vulva contact with an infected partner. Some sources suggest women refrain from sharing swimsuits or towels since Trichomonas can survive outside the human body for 45 minutes in moist conditions. Other culprits may be hot tubs and whirlpools.

Men exhibit either no symptoms or just a mild irritation, discharge or burning on urination or ejaculation.

In women, there is irritation and itching of the genital area, and frothy, yellow-green vaginal discharge with a strong odor. Discomfort is experienced during intercourse and urination.

A timely medical diagnosis is important since delays in treatment can result in pelvic inflammatory disease which can scar the fallopian tubes and cause infertility. Trichomonas has been linked to early or low birth weight babies and increased risk of contracting the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

A physician will examine the vaginal wall and cervix for ulceration, and collect a specimen for examination under a microscope and/or laboratory culture and analysis.

Since diagnosis in men is difficult and negative smears cannot be relied upon both partners should be treated at the same time to eliminate the protozoa and thus the risk of re infection.

Sex should be stopped and all partners notified. Treatment in both men and women, except nursing mothers, usually consists of antibiotics such as Metronidazole.

Those people in long term mutually monogamous relationships or relationships with a recently treated partner are successful at avoiding this disease as are those who consistently and correctly use latex male condoms.

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