Trichomoniasis
The Type: Bacterial. It is caused by a protozoan Trichomonas
vaginalis.
Prevalence: Trichomoniasis is the most common curable
sexually transmitted disease in young, sexually active women.
An estimated 5 million new cases occur each year in women and
men.
How its Transmitted: Trichomoniasis is spread through sexual
contact. Trichomania can also survive on infected objects such
as washcloths, and could possibly be transmitted by sharing
those objects.
The Symptoms: Excessive, foamy diffuse, yellow-green vaginal
discharge is common in women. Difficultly or pain on urination
and/or intercourse is common. There may be vaginal pain and
itching or there may be no symptoms at all. Men may experience
inflammation of the urethra, glans, or foreskin, and/or lesions
on the penis, but most infected men have no symptoms.
The Treatment: The disease can be cured with antibacterial
medication. Sex partners should also be treated.
The Possible Consequences for the Infected person: The
genital inflammation caused by trichomoniasis might also
increase a woman's risk of acquiring HIV infection if she is
exposed to HIV. Trichomoniasis in a woman who is also infected
with HIV can increase the chances of transmitting HIV infection
to a sex partner.
The Possible Consequences for the Fetus and Newborn:
Trichomoniasis in pregnant women may cause premature rupture of
the membranes and preterm delivery.
How to Prevent: Abstaining from vaginal sex with an infected
person is the only 100% effective means of preventing the
sexual transmission of trichomoniasis. Latex condoms and other
similar barrier devices can reduce but not eliminate the risk
of contracting the disease during sex. Avoid sharing towels and
washcloths with others to prevent non-sexual transmission of
the disease.
Sources: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services -
Public Health Service, Rockville, MD 20857; The Upjohn Company;
Contraceptive Technology by R. Hatcher et al, Chapter 4, 16th
Revised Ed., 1994; Medical Institute for Sexual Health, P. O.
Box 4919, Austin, TX, 78765; MedicineNet.com; Centers for
Disease Control (CDC).
Other risks Chlamydia,
Gonorrhea, Hepatitis B, Herpes, HIV/AIDS,
Human Papalloma Virus, Syphilis and Trichomoniasis
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