Common STIs - Trichomonas

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Cause

Trichomonas is caused by a parasite called Trichomonas Vaginalis.

Symptoms

There are usually no noticeable signs. When symptoms do occur they include:

• in women, yellow/green discharge with an unpleasant smell and vaginal itching
• in men, there may be discomfort during urination.

How is it transmitted?

By having unprotected penis and vaginal sex without a condom. It can also be spread from female to female during penetrative sex.

Management

Trichomonas is diagnosed in women through a swab from the vagina. There is no specific test for men, however they are treated if their partner is infected with the parasite and there has been vaginal sex without a condom. This prevents recurrent cross infection. It is treated with a specific type of antibiotic.

Prevention

Condoms used correctly for vaginal sex.

Other related diseases

These include genital diseases that may require treatment. They are not necessarily STIs but infection may occur from sexual contact in some cases.

Sponsor

Department of Human Services

Disclaimer Copyright Updated: 9 Jun 2009