It is a sexually transmitted infection that affects the genital area, and is considered one of the most common parasitic diseases. It affects both sexes, but it is common in women, and older women are more likely to be infected than younger women.
Causes:
- This disease is caused by a type of parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis (Trichomonas), where the parasite passes from an infected person to an uninfected person through secretions during sex, and is usually spread from male to female or vice versa.
- In women, the most commonly affected part is the lower genital tract (vulva, vagina, cervix, or urethra).
- In men, the most common part is inside the penis (urethra).
- The parasite does not infect other parts of the body (such as: hands, mouth, or anus).
Symptoms:
Symptoms and signs may appear in some infected people, while others do not appear, and infected people without symptoms can infect others. When symptoms are present, they can range from mild irritation to severe inflammation, and include:
In women:
- Excessive vaginal secretion (yellow, green, or gray fluid) sometimes, and an unpleasant odor.
- Bad vaginal odor (fishy smell).
- Urinary tract infection.
- Lower abdominal pain.
- Pain or burning during urination, and increased frequency of urination.
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
- Itching or pain and redness in the genitals.
In men:
- Itching or irritation inside the penis.
- Burning after urination or ejaculation.
- Feeling pain during urination or sexual intercourse.
When to see a doctor:
When observing the previous symptoms and signs of both sexes.
Complications:
Complications are rare, but infection with it may increase the chances of infection or transmission of other sexually transmitted diseases (such as HIV). For a pregnant woman, it can cause:
- Premature birth.
- The birth of a baby with a low birth weight.
- High risk of infection being transmitted to the fetus while it is passing through the birth canal.
Treatment:
Treatment is by using oral antibiotics, completing the full course of antibiotics, and it must be emphasized that the spouses are treated together, not just the infected person, while completely abstaining from sexual contact throughout the treatment period.
Protection:
- Safe sex between partners.
- Avoid having sex when symptoms of the disease are present.
- Conducting examinations for sexually transmitted diseases.