Trichomonas Vaginal Infection

Trichomonas is an infection of the vagina caused by a parasite. It may be passed by sexual intercourse. It can also be spread through genital-to-genital contact without sexual intercourse. Sometimes it is an overgrowth of germs that were already present in the vagina. This causes a watery vaginal discharge, vaginal itching and discomfort. It may also cause burning with urination.

Men may carry and pass this infection without having any symptoms.

Home care

1. Your sexual partner needs to be treated even if he has no symptoms. He should contact his own doctor or go to the Public Health Department to be examined and treated.

2. Avoid having sex until both you and your partner have finished all antibiotic medicine and all symptoms have gone away.

3. Take all medicine as directed until it is gone. If you don’t do this, symptoms may return.

4. Keep the genital area clean and free of discharge by wearing an absorbent sanitary pad. Change the pad often. Shower daily, cleaning the outer vaginal area with plain soap and water.

5. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after each bathroom use or any contact with your genital area. This keeps the infection from spreading to other parts of your body, such as your eyes. If the infection spreads to your eyes, it can cause vision problems or even loss of vision.

6. Do not douche during treatment unless advised to do so by your doctor. Routine douching after treatment is no longer recommended to clean the vagina. It raises your risk of vaginal infection and pelvic inflammatory disease.

7. Wear cotton underwear or cotton-lined panty hose. Avoid tight-fitting pants.

Follow up

Follow up with your doctor if symptoms don’t go away after the medicine is finished. 

Get medical attention right away if any of the following occur

• Fever over 100.0º F (37.8º C)

• Lower abdominal pain

• Rash or joint pain

• Open sores around the vagina or penis