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Sexually Transmitted DiseasesTrichomoniasisTrichomoniasis sometimes referred to as "trich" is a common STD that affects 2 to 3 million Americans yearly. It is caused by a single-celled protozoan parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. Trichomoniasis is primarily an infection of the urogenital tract; the urethra is the most common site of infection in men, and the vagina is the most common site of infection in women.Symptoms Trichomoniasis, like many other STDs, often occurs without any symptoms. When symptoms occur, they usually appear within 4 to 20 days of exposure although symptoms can appear years after infection. The symptoms in women include a heavy, yellow-green or gray vaginal discharge, discomfort during intercourse, vaginal odor, and painful urination. Irritation and itching of the female genital area, and on rare occasions, lower abdominal pain also can be present. Treatment Although symptoms of trichomoniasis in men may disappear within a few weeks without treatment, men can transmit the disease to their sex partners even when symptoms are not present. Therefore, it is preferable to treat both partners to eliminate the parasite. Metronidazole is the drug used to treat trichomoniasis. It is administered in a single dose. People taking this drug should not drink alcohol; mixing the two substances can cause severe nausea and vomiting. Complications Although previously trichomoniasis was not thought to result in any important complications, recent studies have linked it to two serious subsequent problems. Data now suggest that trichomoniasis may increase the risk of transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes AIDS, and may cause delivery of low-birth-weight or premature infants. Additional research is needed to fully explore these relationships.
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