Trichomonas infection is one of the very rare sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Being one of the STDs it is most commonly contracted by sexual intercourse. It is infrequently serious however the symptoms can be unpleasant for the patient.

What is Trichomonas?

Trichomonas is a germ similar to bacteria, known as a protozoan. It can infect the genital area in both men and women. This includes the vagina and the urine outlet (urethra) in women, and the urethra and sometimes the prostate gland in men. The infection does not usually progress further into the body and thus does not manifest as seriously as some of the other sexually transmitted diseases.

What are the symptoms of Trichomonas infection?

In women, symptoms may include:

• An offensive grey-green vaginal discharge that may be “frothy” in nature. The smell may be described as “fishy”.
• The vagina and surrounding skin (vulva) being itchy and painful. This irritation may extend into the groin.
• Pain during sexual intercourse.
• Pain on urination.

In men, symptoms may include:

• Discharge from the penis.
• Pain on urination.
• Urinating frequently.
• Infection of the prostate, prostatitis.

Importantly, up to 50% of men and women infected have no symptoms. It is therefore understandable why patients commonly do not know they have the infection and pass it on without getting treated.

Complications with Trichomonas Infection?

Although we have explained that Trichomonas infection is rarely serious, there are a few instances that need to be highlighted regarding Trichomonas infection:

• Pregnancy: Being infected with Trichomonas during pregnancy can be extremely dangerous for the baby. There is an increased risk of having early labour and/or a baby with a low birth weight. These then lead to a large array of complications for the baby that can be avoided with safe sexual intercourse and preventing the infection in the first place.
• HIV: Untreated Trichomonas infection increases the risk of developing HIV infection when having sexual intercourse with someone who has been infected with HIV.

What is the treatment for Trichomonas infection?

Trichomonas infection can be treated 9 out of 10 times with a short course of antibiotics prescribed by the doctor.