Trichomoniasis: Symptoms and prevention

Verified by Dr. Vaishali Sakpal Rane (MBBS, DGO Obstetrics and Gynaecology, DNB Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

Trichomoniasis  also known as “trich” is a very common sexually transmitted infection caused by a protozoan- Trichomonas vaginalis.It can affect both men and women, but women are more than men and  older women more than younger ones. Although symptoms vary, the sad part is trichomoniasis infection is generally asymptomatic and most people who have trich aren’t able to tell they have it. If a person doesn’t get treatment, it increases the chances of getting or spreading other STIs, including HIV.

Symptoms that men may experience are:

• Itching or irritation inside the penis
• Burning sensation after peeing or ejaculating
• Discharge coming out from the penis.

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Symptoms that Women may experience:

-Itching, burning or soreness of the genitals

Discomfort or burning sensation when peeing

-Vaginal fluid that smells bad and is greenish or yellowish or white

Soreness in genitals

-Pain during sex

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-Urge to pee more often

-Bleeding after sex

Causes

Trichomoniasis is caused by a single celled protozoan parasite, e called Trichomonas vaginalis. The parasite is transmitted during genital contact, including oral, anal or vaginal sex. As this infection can happen to both men and women, it can be passed between men and women, women, and sometimes men.

The protozoan parasite infects the lower genital tract. In women, it includes the vulva, vagina, cervix and the urinary opening or urethra . In men, it infects the urethra.

Prevention of Trichomoniasis

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The only way you can completely avoid trich is to not have vaginal, oral or anal sex, but there are certain steps that you can take to reduce the chances of infection.

Always use condoms. Use a condom properly and before touching the vagina.

Avoiding sex with multiple sexual partners who are not tested for STIs. Being in a mutually monogamous relationship with you and your partner who has been tested for trichomoniasis can reduce the risk o

Avoid douching. Your vagina has a natural balance of bacteria to keep you healthy. When you douche, you remove some of those helpful bacteria, which can raise your chances of getting an STD.

Stick with one sex partner who’s tested negative for STDs. If that doesn’t work for you, think about limiting your number of sex partners.

Talk openly with your partners about your sexual histories and potential risk of infection. This can help you make the best choice for yourself.