Trichomonas
Never heard of it? Ignorance won't protect you, so read on and learn more about this little-known STI.
What is it?
A tiny parasite named trichomonas vaginalis, which causes a condition called trichomoniasis ('trich').
How is it caught?
Trichomonas can be picked up and passed on through unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex. As an indication, if any symptoms appear they will do so between 3-21 days after infection.
What are the symptoms?
Females:
- Unpleasant frothy vaginal discharge, often a yellowish-green colour;
- Soreness, itching and inflammation of cervix, vagina, and vulva (opening of the vagina).
Males:
- Tends to be symptomless, though men are often carriers;
- There are often no symptoms if a man is carrying this infection;
- Some men get urethritis (it stings when they pee and may be a discharge from the penis).
Tests and treatment
Clinics will take a swab test. Treatment involves a short course of antibiotics.
Complications
Unlike other sexually transmitted infections, trichomonas does not seem to have many long-term risks to health. Rarely, a pregnant woman may pass the infection on to her baby when she gives birth.
If you think you might have a sexually transmitted infection, sort it out straight away. Don't continue having sex with your partner. Go to your nearest genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic, available at most large hospitals. GUM clinics give free and confidential advice and treatment. Or you can make an appointment to see your GP.Reduce your risk of infection. Make sex safer by using condoms every time.
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