Trichomoniasis

Trichomonas is a tiny organism that causes an infection in the vagina known as trichomoniasis. This is a common vaginal infection in sexually active women. It is passed from person to person during sex. The male sex partner is often infected, but may not have symptoms.

Symptoms in women include:

• itching and burning at the outside opening of the vagina

• painful intercourse

• painful or more frequent urination

• a heavy, unpleasant smelling, greenish-yellow discharge

If you have these problems, your healthcare provider can help. You will need an exam to test the discharge and to make sure that there are no other infections present. Treatment will be needed for both you and your partner. Pregnant women are usually treated after the first part of pregnancy. For most people, the symptoms disappear in less than one week after treatment. Re-infection may take place if your partner is not treated, or if you do not complete the course of treatment. Be sure to call your healthcare provider if your symptoms do not resolve.

Trichomoniasis is transmitted like other sexual diseases, through unprotected sexual intercourse, without a condom. Abstinence (having no sex) or monogamy (which means having one faithful committed partner) will protect you from this organism.

To learn more about safer sex, call your local health department for materials, or visit your local library.

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