Trichomonas Vaginitis
Trichomonas infections are caused by an organism, which is usually transmitted sexually. Trichomonas infects both men and women and the estimates for North America are between 5 and 8 million new infections each year, with an estimated rate of asymptomatic cases as high as 50%. Women may have no symptoms or they may have:
- Itching and inflammation of the vagina and external genitals.
- Greenish-yellow foamy discharge that frequently has a foul odor.
- Urinary irritation and burning.
- An abnormal Pap smear.
Men usually have no symptoms, but it is possible they may notice a burning when they urinate or a discharge from their penis.
Treatment
The infection is diagnosed by microscopic examination of a woman’s vaginal discharge or by a Pap smear. Usually Trichomonas is treated with a drug called Metronidazole; (a stat dose - 2 grams or a 7 day course treatment by mouth). It is important that sexual partner(s) be treated at the same time to prevent reinfection.
Metronidazole should never be taken by pregnant women or by people with a history of blood or nervous system disorders. Alcohol should be avoided 24 hours before and 24 hours after the medicine has been taken to avoid severe stomach upset and faintness. For a few days following Metronidazole treatment, it is important that the male partner uses a condom to prevent reinfection.
Trichomonas infections are important to treat, whether or not they cause symptoms, because they can cause Pap smear changes.
BACK TO INFORMATION