Unlike most sexually transmitted diseases, trichomoniasis is
caused by a parasite rather than by bacteria or a virus. The
parasite can be present in the vagina for years without causing
symptoms. If they do occur, typical symptoms include vaginal
itching and burning, a greenish yellow vaginal discharge with an
offensive, fishy odor, and burning or pain when urinating. In
men, symptoms include mild itching and irritation of the penis,
pain during intercourse, discomfort when urinating, and discharge
from the foreskin (in uncircumcised men). Men who have
trichomoniasis usually don't experience any symptoms, however,
and may unknowingly infect their sexual partners.
Trichomoniasis is diagnosed by examining a drop of vaginal
fluid or penile discharge under a microscope or by growing a
culture.
If you're being treated for trichomoniasis, follow these
simple guidelines.
 Take medication
as prescribed. The medication metronidazole (brand name Flagyl)
is
 usually taken orally.
(If you're a woman, don't take this drug during the first three
months
of pregnancy.)
Avoid drinking
alcohol for 24 hours before or after taking the metronidazole.
The
combination causes
vomiting, dizziness, and headaches.
Women should
douche with a solution of diluted providine iodine or a mild
vinegar and
water solution. (Don't
use as a substitute for metronidazole, however.) Ask your doctor
what proportions he or
she recommends, how often you should douche, and for how long.
To soothe
irritated skin around the penis or vagina, wash the genital area
with mild,
unscented soap and
water at least once a day.
If you have trichomoniasis, your partner should be treated
simultaneously. Otherwise, you'll continue to reinfect each
other.
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