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 Trichomonas Infectionby Caron Boyer, RN, CRNP What is Trichomonas?Trichomonas ("Trich-o-mon-is"), sometimes called "trich", is an infection which affects the vagina in women and the urinary tract in men. It is caused by a parasite.How do you catch trichomonas?Trichomonas is a sexually transmitted disease and is spread through sexual intercourse with an infected partner. In fact, trichomonas is one of the most common STD's. It is found more often in women who have multiple sexual partners. Many people believe that "trich" can be caught from a toilet seat. This is not very likely, though, since the parasite that causes the infection cannot live for very long in the air.What are the symptoms of trichomonas?Trichomonas may have no symptoms. But most women experience vaginal itching or burning on urination. There is usually a heavy, foul smelling yellow-green or gray discharge from the vagina. Occasionally, there may be pain during sex or pain in the lower belly.Men almost never have symptoms. If they do, it is a white thin discharge from the penis and painful urination. To diagnose trichomonas, the practitioner will insert a speculum into the vagina and collect some of the vaginal discharge onto a slide. The slide is then examined under a microscope for the parasite. How is trichomonas treated?Trichomonas is usually treated with a medication that is taken by mouth, called Flagyl ® or Metronidazole. Flagyl® is usually given in a single dose. It's important not to drink alcohol while taking Flagyl,® because it can cause severe nausea and vomiting.Trichomonas is not treated in pregnancy until after the first trimester, and then is usually treated with the Flagyl by mouth.. Since men often don't have symptoms, it's important to treat the male partner at the same time as the woman. If he is not treated, he may reinfect his partner. Are there any complications of a trichomonas infection?Research has shown that women who have a trichomonas infection have a higher risk of getting HIV/AIDS. If the woman is pregnant when she gets the infection, there is a higher risk of her having a premature baby. Babies born to women who have trichomonas may become infected during delivery. The baby may get a fever or have a vaginal discharge, if it's a girl. Babies with this infection need to be treated.How can I protect myself from trichomonas?
If you think you may have trichomonas or any other STD, see your health care practitioner as soon as possible. Last Updated: December 03, 2007 |