How does Trichomoniasis spread?
Trichomoniasis a common, treatable, sexually transmitted disease (STD). Most people who have trichomoniasis do not have any symptoms T. vaginalis, the parasite that causes trichomoniasis, can pass from one person to another during sex (oral, anal, or vaginal sex) or through genital touching. In females, trichomoniasis mostly affects the lower genital tract. In males, it affects the urethra, the tube through which urine passes.
Other parts of the body, such as the anus, hands, or mouth, cannot usually become infected.
The following people have a higher chance of getting trichomoniasis:
- Females.
- People with more than one sexual partner.
- Those with a history of trichomoniasis or other STIs.
- People who have unprotected sex.
How will you know if you have Trichomoniasis?
- Frothy, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, which may be clear, white, gray, yellow, or green
- Vaginal discharge with blood
- Genital irritation
- Discomfort during sex or when urinating
- Swelling in the groin
- Frequent urination
- Lower abdominal pain
Symptoms in males may include:
- Discharge from the urethra or penis
- Itching in the penis
- Burning sensations after ejaculating or urinating
- Frequent need to urinate
- Pain when urinating
What happens if you don’t get treated?
Trichomoniasis can lead to several complications if not treated. A woman can sometimes pass on the infection to the newborn during delivery, but this is rare. Trich may increase the risk of reproductive tract infections. A trich infection can increase the risk of getting HIV and other STIs, especially in females.
Trichomoniasis with complications during pregnancy, including:
- Preterm birth
- Early rupture of the membrane
- Low birth weight in newborns
- Iinfertility