Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis, or “trich,” is a genital inflammation caused by the protozoa trichomonas vaginalis.

Trichomoniasis is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during unprotected anal, oral, or vaginal sex with an infected person.

Signs and Symptoms:

Signs of infection in women usually appear within five to 28 days after exposure. Men usually show no signs of infection.
Women may have a frothy, yellow-green vaginal discharge with a strong odor. They may also experience burning during intercourse and urination as well as irritation and itching of the female genital area.
Pregnant women may experience a premature rupture of the membranes and a preterm delivery.
Men may experience irritation inside the penis, a mild discharge, or a slight burning after urination or ejaculation.

Testing:

Trichomoniasis is diagnosed through cultures of vaginal and penile discharge.

Treatment:

Trichomoniasis is curable with antibiotics prescribed by a health care provider. All partners must undergo treatment at the same time to prevent passing the infection back and forth. They should also be sure to finish the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms subside

For more information click here: www.ashastd.org/learn/learn_vag_trich_tri.cfm

Prevalence:

National Data - CDC's Tracking the Hidden Epidemics: Trends in STDs in the United States 2000 Report: www.cdc.gov/std/Trends2000/trichomoniasis.htm
An estimated five million cases of trichomoniasis occur each year in the United States.
To view a table showing the number of initial visits to physicians' offices for trichomoniasis and other vaginal infections in women, 1966-2005: www.cdc.gov/std/stats07/tables/42.htm
To view a graph showing the number of initial visits to physicians' offices for trichomoniasis and other vaginal infections in women, 1966-2005: www.cdc.gov/std/stats07/figures/47.htm