Trichomoniasis

The infection is mainly transmitted through unprotected vaginal intercourse. Transmission through anal or oral sex is rare. In individual cases, the parasite can also be transmitted through shared, damp towels or sex toys, but this is rare.

Risk factors for an infection:

- Unprotected sexual intercourse

- Frequently changing sexual partners

- Previous STIs that make the mucous membranes more sensitive

- Insufficient intimate hygiene

Many infected individuals have no or only mild symptoms, which is why the disease often goes unnoticed. If symptoms occur, they usually appear within 5 to 28 days after infection.

In women:

- Frothy, foul-smelling, yellowish-green discharge

- Burning or itching in the vagina

- Pain during urination (dysuria)

- Pain or bleeding during intercourse

- Redness and swelling of the vaginal mucosa

In men:

- Usually no symptoms

- If symptoms occur:

- Burning or pain during urination

- Discharge from the urethra

- Irritation or itching in the urethra

Since the symptoms are often nonspecific or absent, a laboratory diagnosis is necessary. The following methods are used:

• Microscopic examination: The pathogen can be directly visualized in the vaginal or urethral swab.
• PCR test: A very precise method that detects the genetic material of the parasite.
• Culture test: Cultivation of the pathogen in a special nutrient solution.

In men, the diagnosis is more difficult because the parasite can be detected less frequently in the urethra.

The infection is well treatable with antibiotics:

- Metronidazole or Tinidazole (usually as a single dose or over several days)

- Important: The sexual partner must always be treated as well, even if no symptoms are present, to avoid reinfection.

- During treatment: No alcohol, as metronidazole in combination with alcohol can cause side effects such as nausea and vomiting.

Untreated trichomoniasis can cause the following problems:

• Increased risk of other STIs, including HIV, as the mucous membranes are damaged.
• Premature births or low birth weight in infected pregnant women.
• Chronic inflammation in the genital area, which can cause discomfort.
• Prostate- or epididymitis (rare in men).

The prevention of trichomoniasis is primarily based on protected sexual intercourse, as the infection is transmitted through unprotected vaginal contact. The consistent use of condoms can significantly reduce the risk of infection. In addition, regular screenings for sexually transmitted infections are important, especially for individuals with frequently changing sexual partners. If an infection is diagnosed, it is essential that both partners are treated to avoid reinfection. Open communication about sexual health and responsible behavior also play an important role in prevention.