What is this?
Trichomonas vaginalis
is a preventable and curable protozoan infection that affects the urogenital
tract and is transmitted sexually.While most infections are asymptomatic, over
50% of women with Trichomonas vaginalis experience vaginal discharge, and about
10% of men develop urethritis.
The parasite is
spread through oral, vaginal, and anal sex, and in rare cases, during
childbirth.Using condoms correctly and consistently during sex can prevent
trichomoniasis.
Most infections in
both men and women are asymptomatic. Symptomatic women may experience vaginal
discharge, which can be yellow and appear purulent. Other symptoms include
redness and soreness of the vagina, as well as pain during intercourse and
urination.
When T. vaginalis is
present, a healthcare provider may observe a yellow or greenish, possibly
frothy discharge in the vagina during a speculum examination.
Men are often
asymptomatic, but some may experience penile irritation and urethritis.
How is it transmitted?
Sexually active individuals can contract trichomoniasis by having sex without a condom with a partner who is infected with the disease.
How to avoid it?
●
Use
condoms (male or female) every time you have vaginal or anal sex.
●
For
oral sex, cover the penis with a condom or the female genitals with a latex or
polyurethane square (a dam).
●
For
women rubbing their vulvas together, one of you should cover the genitals with
a dam.
●
Avoid
sharing sex toys. If you do share them, wash them or cover them with a new
condom before anyone else uses them.