Trich

What is trichomoniasis?
Trichomonas vaginitis also known as trichomoniasis, or simply as "trich," is an infection caused by a one-celled, flagellated parasite called trichomonas vaginalis. While this parasite can survive for a few hours on damp towels or clothes, it is most commonly transmitted through sexual contact. when trichomonas enters into the vagina, it causes an infection which produces a symptomatic and abnormal vaginal discharge. Trichomonas vaginalis lives in the vagina, the cervix as well as in the urethra and bladder. In men it can inhabit the urethra and bladder and possibly the prostate. Trichomonas can multiply when the vaginal, urethra or bladder conditions are favorable. An estimated 2.5 to 3 million americans are infected with trichomonas each year.



Is it normal to have vaginal discharge?
Yes! Most women have some vaginal discharge normally. This is one of the body's methods of cleansing the vagina and also of keeping the vaginal walls moist. A normal discharge has no bad odor and causes no irritation. Any time you feel there has been a change from what you consider normal for you. It's a good idea to have a medical examination.



What are the symptoms of trichomonas vaginitis?
Symptoms of trichomoniasis generally appear within 4-20 days after the individual has been infected by the trich parasite. In women, a trichomonas infection produces a thin, frothy, greenish to yellowish vaginal discharge which may have a bad or foul-smelling odor. This infection can irritate the vagina causing swelling, burning or itching of the vaginal opening and even the labia. Men infected with "trich" may have little or no symptoms at all. When they do have symptoms, they may be similar to the symptoms women experience, itching, irritation, watery greenish discharge occasionally with a small amount of blood.



Is trichomonas dangerous?
No. It can be annoying, frustrating, uncomfortable and even painful but it is not dangerous to your overall life and well-being. It does not injure the reproductive organs. Nor does it cause infertility or los of ability to become pregnant.



Besides the symptoms, is there any way to detect trichomoniasis?
In asymptomatic women, trichomonas infection can often be discovered at the time of a routine pelvic examination concurrent other vaginal infections. There are a number of simple tests which can identify trichomonas including looking at the vaginal discharge under the microscope, called a "wet mount." infections can also be detected when you have a pap test as a regular check for cancer of the cervix.



How do you get trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis is most often spread by sexual contract with an infected person. however, you can get it without having sexual intercourse. Babies can get trichomonas at birth if the mother has this infection. Also, since this parasite can survive for several hours where there is moisture, direct contact with a recently contaminated object, such as a towel, can lead to infection.



are there any special factors which may contribute to developing trichomoniasis?
Yes. When the general body resistance is decreased by poor health, you can become more susceptible to any infection, which would include trich. Other contributing factors could be:



diabetes
excess weight
birth control pill
recent childbirth
antibiotics taken for other infections
nylon underwear or pantyhose, if woven too tightly, may contribute to the problem. These fabrics tend to restrict air from circulating, and keep the outer surfaces of the vagina moist. Parasites such as trichomonas grow best in moist environments.



How is trichomonas treated?
Trichomoniasis is successfully treated in most cases using a medication called metranidazole or "flagyl." it is important to remember that while taking metranidazole you should not drink alcoholic beverages for three days before or after, and especially not while taking this medication. If you do during alcoholic beverages you may experience severe vomiting and abdominal pain. For more information regarding the side effects of using metranidazole please see our handout metranidazole (flagyl) facts and instructions. Metranidazole should not be used by women who are pregnant or breast-feeding.



How can I decrease my risk or prevent getting trichomonas?
You can reduce your risk of developing trichomonas by using the following suggestions, however, please be aware they are not 100% guaranteed:



avoid sexual relations with numerous partners. Next to abstinence, long-term sexual relations with only one person who also has sex only with you, is the best preventive method.
Use basic methods of contraception such as a condom (rubber) and diaphragm together with a contraceptive foam containing nonoxynol-9.
Sexual practices other than vaginal intercourse may also reduce the risk of contracting trichomonas.
Avoid sexual contact with any person known to have trichomonas until their course of treatment is complete and they have received medical clearance.