Trichomoniasis, also known as trich', is a very common sexually transmitted disease caused by the Trichomonas vaginalis, which is a single-celled protozoan parasite. It mainly effects the genitourinary tract, particularly the urethra in men and the vagina in women.

In most cases men have no symptoms and 20% of women have no symptoms. Where there are symptoms in men they involve whitish discharge from the penis and urination problems.

In women symptoms appear after 5-28 days and may involve gray or yellowy-green vaginal discharges, fish-like vaginal odor, urination problems, difficult intercourse as well as possibly itches, inflammation, cell hypertrophy, metaplasia, and edema. Trichomoniasis may be linked to increased HIV risk and delivery of low birth weight and premature babies.

Treatment is with Metronidazole, a nitroimidazole anti-infective drug that kills anaerobic bacteria and protozoa. Prevention is better than cure, and reducing the risk of trichomoniasis can be achieved by abstinence, by barrier contraception methods such as condoms, by regular health checks and by finding out about the sexual health of your partner.

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