Trichomonas vaginalis

Understanding Trichomonas vaginalis

Trichomonas vaginalis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a microscopic parasite rather than a bacterium or virus.

Although less common in the UK than infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea, it remains an important cause of genital symptoms and is responsible for millions of infections worldwide each year.

One of the challenges with Trichomonas is that many individuals carrying the infection experience no symptoms at all.

What Symptoms Can Trichomonas Cause?

Many infected individuals remain completely asymptomatic.

When symptoms do occur, women are more likely to experience symptoms than men.

Symptoms in women may include:

• Vaginal discharge
• Vaginal irritation
• Itching
• Burning
• Discomfort during intercourse
• Pelvic discomfort

Symptoms in men may include:

• Mild urethral irritation
• Burning when passing urine
• Occasional discharge

Because symptoms overlap considerably with other genital infections, laboratory testing is usually required to establish the diagnosis.

How Is Trichomonas Treated?

Trichomonas is generally straightforward to treat once identified.

Partner testing and treatment are often important in order to prevent reinfection.