STIs : About Trichomonas Vaginalis (TV)
What is it and how is it passed on?
Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) is caused by a tiny parasite found in the vagina and urethra (the tube where urine comes out).
It is passed on through:
- vaginal sex
- from a mother to her baby at birth
- sharing sex toys
You can't catch trichomonas vaginalis from kissing, hugging, sharing cups, plates or cutlery, or from toilet seats or swimming pools.
Signs and symptoms
Up to 50% of infected people show no symptoms, but symptoms can appear between three and 21 days after infection.
Symptoms in women:
- iincreased discharge from the vagina, which may be thinner or frothy, change in colour and have a musty or fishy smell
- itching, soreness and inflammation in and around the vagina
- pain when passing urine or having sex
- tenderness in the lower abdomen
Symptoms in men:
- thin, whitish discharge from the tip of the penis, which can stain underwear
- pain or burning when passing urine
Men especially tend to act as carriers and not show symptoms.
Testing and treatment
Tests shouldn't be painful, but they may be uncomfortable. They may include:
- genital examination by a doctor or nurse
- taking a swab from the vagina or urethra and examining it under a microscope
- women may have an internal examination
- urine tests
TV is sometimes discovered during a routine cervical smear test.
Treatment is simple and involves a single dose or course of antibiotics. Once successfully treated, TV doesn't come back unless a new infection is acquired. To avoid re-infection, any sexual partners must also be treated.
Unprotected vaginal sex should be avoided until treatment is completed and the infection has cleared up. A check-up is advised after treatment to make sure the infection has gone.
What happens if it isn't treated?
Trichomonas vaginalis doesn't cause any serious long-term health problems.
Where to go for help and advice
You can talk to your GP, practice nurse or go to a genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic. Such clinics diagnose and treat all STIs for free. They're completely confidential and your GP won't be informed without your consent. You can go to any clinic in the country for advice or treatment.
How to avoid STIs
1. Before you have sex, talk to your partner about how to protect yourselves.
2. A male or female condom can provide protection from most STIs if used correctly every time you have sex.
3. Become familiar with how to use condoms and have a supply ready.
4. Seek advice straight away if you think you've been at risk.
All content within MensHealthOnly.com is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. MensHealthOnly.com is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made by a user based on the content of MensHealthOnly.com website.
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