STD - Trichomonas

Adult HouseCalls Online

DEFINITION

• Seeking information about trichomonas, a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

General Information

• Trichomonas is caused by the Trichomonas vaginalis protozoa.
• Trichomonas is a common STD. It has been estimated that there are eight million new cases each year in North America.
• Trichomonas is treatable with antibiotics.

Typical Symptoms of Trichomonas

• In women, trichomonas may cause a foul-odored, yellow, sometimes bubbly vaginal discharge. It may also cause vaginal itching and redness, or burning with urination.
• Some women have no symptoms.
• Most men with a trichomonas infection have no symptoms. Sometimes there may be a mild burning with urination or a discharge from the penis.

What is a Normal versus Abnormal Vaginal Discharge?

• Normal: May be clear or white, thin or thick. It is not odorous and there is no itching.
• Abnormal:
  • Yellow or green vaginal discharge is usually from an infection.
  • A foul-smelling discharge is usually from an infection.
  • A thick, white, itchy, cottage cheese-like non-odorous discharge is often caused by a yeast infection.

References and Resources

1. American Social Health Association
   • “Answers to your questions about teen sexual health and sexually transmitted diseases”.
   • http://www.iwannaknow.org
2. Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines 2002. MMWR. 2002; 51(RR-6):1-80.
3. Public Health Agency of Canada
   • Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI), Sexual Health Facts and Information
   • http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/std-mts/faq_e.html

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

• PENIS SYMPTOMS (male genital symptoms)
• VAGINAL DISCHARGE
• VULVAR SYMPTOMS (female genital symptoms)
• Questions about CHLAMYDIA, a sexually transmitted disease
• Questions about GONORRHEA, a sexually transmitted disease
• Questions about GENITAL HERPES, a sexually transmitted disease
• Questions about HIV, a sexually transmitted disease
• Questions about PUBIC LICE, a sexually transmitted disease

---

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

• You were forced to have sex (sexual assault or rape)
• Yellow or green vaginal discharge occurring with a fever
• Constant abdominal pain for more than 2 hours

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9am and 4pm) If

• You think you need to be seen
• Abnormal color of vaginal discharge (i.e. yellow, green, gray)
• Bad smelling vaginal discharge
• Blood in vaginal discharge (EXCEPTION: normal, regular menstrual period)
• Burning or pain with urination

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

• You have other questions or concerns
• You are worried you might have a sexually transmitted disease

Self Care at Home If

• No symptoms and you don't think you need to be seen
• Questions about trichomonas

---

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR TRICHOMONAS

1. How is trichomonas transmitted?
   • Trichomonas is spread by sexual intercourse (vaginal).
   • Some women and many men do not have symptoms when they are infected. As a result, trichomonas can be passed along with neither sexual partners knowing that it is occurring.
2. How long does it usually take for symptoms to appear once one is exposed?
   • The incubation period is 4 days to 4 weeks.
3. How can I get tested for trichomonas?
   • Inspection of a sample of the vaginal discharge under the microscope.
   • May also be found on a Pap smear.
4. Is there treatment for trichomonas?
   • Antibiotic therapy is needed. A person with trichomonas is contagious until he or she has been treated.
   • Sexual partners should also be evaluated and treated.
5. STD National Hotline
   • The CDC National STD Hotline provides information on sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, HPV/genital warts, herpes, and HIV/AIDS. Specialists can provide general information, referrals to local clinics, and written materials about STDs and disease prevention.
   • Toll-free number (English): (800) 227-8922
   • Toll-free number (Spanish): (800) 344-7432
   • Their website is at: http://www.ashastd.org/
6. Pregnancy Test When In Doubt:
   • If there is any possibility of pregnancy, obtain and use a urine pregnancy test from the local drug store.
   • Follow the instructions included in the package.
7. Call Your Doctor If:
   • Pregnancy test is positive; or if you have difficulties with the home pregnancy test.
   • Discharge from penis or unusual vaginal discharge.
   • You become worse

And remember, contact your doctor if you develop any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.