trichomoniasis

Definition

Or: trichomona / trich (pronounced trick) / vaginitis , a sexually transmitted disease caused by a microscopic, one-celled parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. Trichomonas causes vaginal infections in women and urethritis (inflammation of the opening at the tip of the penis) in a small number of men. Because this parasite can survive up to 24 hours on wet towels and bathing suits, trichomonas can be passed on by moist objects such as bathing towels or toilet seats. INCUBATION PERIOD: 4 to 28 days. SYMPTOMS: The majority of individuals with this condition are completely asymptomatic. Those women who develop symptoms may have a frothy, greenish, yellow, or white vaginal discharge of unpleasant smell, vaginal itching, redness and pain in the vaginal area. Men almost never have any symptoms, although they remain infectious nonetheless. Those men who develop symptoms may have a discharge from the penis, a burning sensation when passing urine and an irritation around tip of penis. TREATMENT: The most effective treatment is oral metronidazole (sold under the brand name Flagyl). This drug is very risky for pregnant women and should be avoided during the first 3 months of pregnancy. If not treated, trich can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) which can cause infertility.