Std Symptoms

According to the annual reports of the World Health Organization, about 7.4 million cases of Trichomoniasis are reported every year from the United States alone, and over 180 million cases of it surface from all over the world. Trichomoniasis (also known as “trich”) is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases in the world. It is caused by a flagellated motile protozoan, Trichomonas vaginalis. Human beings are the only known hosts for this parasite.

Trichomonas vaginalis is pyriform in shape, and the average size is about that of a white blood cell (9X7 pm). These parasites reproduce every 8 to 12 hours and therefore, the infection spreads quickly once the parasite infects the squamous epithelial lining of the genital tract. Incubation period ranges from 4 to 28 days and the infection may persist for long periods in females, but extend to a maximum of 10 days in males.

In most of the cases, Trichomoniasis is transmitted through sexual intercourse from the penis to the vagina or through vulva to vulva contact when an uninfected person indulges in sexual activity with an infected partner. Transmission can also occur through fomites such as bathing suits or towels.

In infected women, it causes severe itching or irritation in the genital area. This is accompanied by yellowish green vaginal discharge, having a characteristic fishy odor. Apart from this, the female also experiences pain during sexual intercourse. In infected men Trichomoniasis causes a discharge from the penis or burning sensation during urination or ejaculation.

Trichomoniasis is quite easily curable. In most cases of the infection, oral medication, typically tinidazole or metronidazole is used to cure trichomoniasis.

Tags: Trichomoniasis