Trichomoniasis
- What is trichomoniasis?
- How is trichomoniasis transmitted?
- What are possible symptoms and consequences?
- How is trichomoniasis tested for?
- How is trichomoniasis treated?
- Should sexual partners get treatment as well?
- How can the (re-)infection be prevented?
What is trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis is the name of the infection that is caused by trichomonads. Trichomonads are parasites.
How is trichomoniasis transmitted?
The Trichomonas vaginalis infection is transmitted through sexual contact. Contrary to what the name might suggest, the infection occurs in both men and women.
What are possible symptoms and consequences?
The infection often proceeds without symptoms. Half the infected women experience no symptoms, and in men the infection, as a rule, progresses without any symptoms.
Women:
- Pale, frothy, malodorous vaginal discharge
- Itching
- Burning sensation during urination
Men:
- Burning sensation during urination
- Red, irritated glans
An untreated infection can lead to infertility in both women and men.
How is trichomoniasis tested for?
Testing for a trichomoniasis infection involves analysing a mucosal swab of the vagina or the penis.
How is trichomoniasis treated?
Trichomoniasis can be cured with antibiotics.
Should sexual partners get treatment as well?
The person concerned should consider, together with her or his doctor, where the infection came from and whom it might already have been passed on to. Those sexual partners should be informed about the diagnosis, so they can get a medical exam and, if necessary, treatment.
Current sexual partners need to be treated simultaneously to avoid a “ping-pong effect”, whereby partners repeatedly re-infect each other. An additional benefit is the fact that condom use can be dispensed with during simultaneous treatment.
How can the (re-)infection be prevented?
Condoms reduce the risk of getting infected with trichomonads. But an infection is possible despite condom use. It is important to detect and treat an infection early
Therefore: If you have changing or multiple sexual partners during the same time period, talk to your doctor or another specialist about sexually transmitted infections (including HIV) and get advice on whether tests may be necessary.
In case of an infection, LOVE LIFE provides tips on how to inform your partner.