| |
|
| |
TRICHOMONAS |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
Other names - TV or trich |
|
Where does it come from? |
| ~ |
it is a parasite called ‘trichomonas vaginalis’ |
|
How do I get it? |
| ~ |
it is sexually transmitted |
|
How long does it take to show? |
| ~ |
usually 1-2 weeks, although it may lie dormant (sleeping) |
|
What might I notice? |
|
You might notice one or more of the following: |
|
Women |
| ~ |
there is usually an increased vaginal discharge which is yellow, frothy and smelly |
| ~ |
soreness of the vagina and vulva (private area) |
| ~ |
burning pain when passing urine |
| ~ |
uncomfortable sex |
|
Men |
| ~ |
usually have no signs or symptoms |
| ~ |
occasionally there may be pain when passing urine |
| ~ |
there may be a discharge from the penis |
|
What tests should I have? |
| ~ |
a swab (or sample taken by wiping a special cotton wool bud through the discharge) would be taken and viewed under a microscope |
| ~ |
you would also be given a full STI screen (check-up) |
|
What treatment is there for TV? |
| ~ |
antibiotics - it is important not to consume alcohol whilst taking these tablets, as they react together and may make you feel sick |
|
What do I do after I finish the treatment? |
| ~ |
be advised by the doctor or clinic treating you – especially if you have any other infection as well - they may want to see you again |
| ~ |
it is wise to be checked again at a GUM Clinic after treatment, to be sure it has all gone |
|
What about my partner? |
| ~ |
they should be seen at a GUM Clinic and checked thoroughly |
| ~ |
Trichamonas can be difficult to find in men – even if a female partner has symptoms |
|
What about sex? |
| ~ |
this should be avoided until your treatment and that of your partner has been completed – otherwise, you may become re-infected |
|
What about oral sex, anal sex and condoms? |
| ~ |
TV can be passed on by oral or penetrative sex |
|
What complications can come from having TV? |
| ~ |
in rare cases the infection can come back, even though both partners have been treated |
| ~ |
if this happens to you, a longer course of treatment is necessary |
|
How can I avoid getting TV? |
| ~ |
take time to get to know your partner |
| ~ |
never assume that a clean looking person is clear of infection |
| |
|
