Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) that affects both women and men, although symptoms are more common in women.
How common is trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis is the most common curable STD in young, sexually active women. An estimated 5 million new cases occur each year in women and men.
How do people get trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis is caused by the single-celled protozoan parasite, Trichomonas vaginalis. The vagina is the most common site of infection in women, and the urethra (urine canal) is the most common site of infection in men.
The parasite is sexually transmitted through penis-to-vagina intercourse or vulva-to-vulva (the genital area outside the vagina) contact with an infected partner. Women can acquire the disease from infected men or women, but men usually contract it only from infected women.
What are the signs and symptoms of trichomoniasis?
Most men with trichomoniasis do not have signs or symptoms; however, some men may have an irritation inside the penis, mild discharge, or slight burning after urination or ejaculation.
Many women have signs or symptoms of infection which include a frothy, yellow-green vaginal discharge with a strong odor. The infection also may cause discomfort during intercourse and urination, as well as irritation and itching of the female genital area. In rare cases, lower abdominal pain can occur. Symptoms usually appear in women within 5 to 28 days of exposure.
What are the complications of trichomoniasis?
The genital inflammation caused by trichomoniasis can increase a woman’s susceptibility to HIV infection if she is exposed to the virus. Having trichomoniasis also increases the chances that an HIV-infected woman can pass HIV to her sex partners.
How does trichomoniasis affect a pregnant woman and her baby?
Pregnant women with trichomoniasis may have babies who are born early or with low birth weight (less than five pounds).
How is trichomoniasis diagnosed?
For both men and women, a health care provider must perform a physical examination and laboratory test to diagnose trichomoniasis. The parasite is harder to detect in men than in women. In women, a pelvic examination can reveal small red ulcerations (sores) on the vaginal wall or cervix.
