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Trichomonads are small single-celled parasites (protozoa) equipped with flagella which enable them to move about. They are transmitted primarily through sexual contact. In rare cases the infection may also be contracted in swimming baths, for example by sitting in pools of water at the edge of the pool.
Symptoms and signs
In women infection mainly causes inflammation of the vagina which can spread to the cervix. Symptoms such as itching, discharge (often greenish and frothy), burning on urination, frequent urination and painful intercourse may occur. About one quarter of women with diagnosed infection have no symptoms.
In pregnant women with trichomoniasis birth complications are more common (e.g. premature labor, premature rupture of the membranes and premature delivery). The infection can also be transmitted to the child, particularly into the vagina of girls.
Men usually have no symptoms. However, in individual cases there may be inflammation of the urethra which can be accompanied by a white discharge from the penis. The parasites can spread through the urethra to the bladder, prostate or epididymides and cause inflammation of these organs too.
Diagnosis
In acute infections the discharge can lead to a presumptive diagnosis.
Examination of a specimen from the vagina or urethra shows pear-shaped, flagellated microorganisms. It may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis by means of a laboratory culture or special stain.
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