This is the second most common cause of an abnormal vaginal discharge and it has been estimated that 180 million women suffer from it world-wide. It is a protozoan infection that is carried without symptoms by many people (one survey suggested that 23 per cent of women carry it), so do not jump to conclusions about venereal spread. In women the infection causes a painful and irritating discharge of a yellowish-green bubbly fluid. It is sometimes offensive to smell. The vulva is usually bright red from being inflamed and intercourse is unpleasant because of the pain. The doctor will take a swab but the condition can be difficult to diagnose.
In men trichomoniasis can produce a slight irritation in the urinary passage (urethra), but usually the partner of an infected woman carries the infection without knowing it. This means that a woman with trichomoniasis must ensure that her partner is treated if she does not want him to reinfect her.
Treatment is simple and effective. Both parties are given a course of a drug called metronidazole (Flagyl) as tablets to be taken three times a day for a couple of weeks. Flagyl can cause sickness and headaches, especially if combined with alcohol. The couple should avoid sex until the treatment is over. Other newer drugs which are effective more quickly are now available. Flagyl is also used to treat
Gardnerella infections in which the resultant discharge often has a fishy or ‘high cheese’ odour. It is estimated that a third of women carry the organism but in many it does not lead to discomfort and discharge.
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