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Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite that can cause inflammation of the genital and urinary tracts. Women are more susceptible to infections, but men can carry the infection without symptoms. It can be treated with medication, and using protection during sexual activity can greatly reduce the risk of infection.
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI), caused by a single-celled parasite that causes inflammation of the genital and urinary tracts. Women are more susceptible to infections, while men can carry the infection without showing any obvious symptoms. Like other STIs, the safest way to avoid the disease is to abstain from sexual activity, but the risk can be greatly reduced by using a protective barrier and engaging in sexual activity only with committed partners.
The organism responsible for trichomoniasis is a protozoan known as trichomonad. When the protozoan colonizes the genital and urinary tracts, it causes inflammation that can cause itching or a burning sensation. Infected women may experience unpleasant vaginal discharge with a strange odor or foamy appearance. In men, the infection usually occurs along the urethra, creating an uncomfortable sensation when urinating. The condition is treated with a course of medication; usually only a large dose is needed to clear the infection.
Women are most vulnerable to trichomoniasis infections during their menstrual periods, although they can potentially become infected at any time. It can take one to three weeks for symptoms to emerge, although women are able to pass the infection to other partners before symptoms appear. Most women first notice symptoms in the form of uncomfortable urination and sexual activity.
While someone is infected with trichomoniasis, their risk of contracting HIV increases, because the infection irritates already vulnerable tissue in the genital tract, creating an opportunity for HIV to transfer. This infection has also been linked to low birth weight in newborns, so pregnant women who suspect they have the condition should seek medical attention.
This sexually transmitted infection is also known as “trich” and is relatively common. With effective medications, trichomoniasis is fairly easy to treat and appears to have no long-lasting effects. In the event that someone is diagnosed with trichomoniasis or another STI, it is considered polite to contact recent sexual partners to notify them and suggest that they receive treatment. Some public health departments may offer this service for clients who are embarrassed to contact former partners.
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