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Trichomoniasis
Health Services > Sexually Transmitted Infections > Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis, or "trich" as it is sometimes called, is a sexually transmitted disease passed from one person to another during intercourse. If left untreated, trich may cause changes in a woman's Pap smear.
Women's symptoms are increased vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor, discomfort with intercourse and, occasionally, burning with urination. Men seldom have symptoms but can experience mild burning and urinating. A diagnosis can be made for the female by a microscopic examination of a sample of the discharge.
The antibiotic metronidazole is used to treat trichomoniasis, but there are possible side effects. It should not be used by people with a history of blood or central nervous system diseases. If your treatment is metronidazole, you must not drink alcohol, as it will cause nausea and vomiting. Your urine may appear darker than normal and you may notice a "metallic" taste in your mouth. These symptoms are not serious, but you should increase your fluid intake to 4-6 glasses a day.
Clotrimazole is prescribed to treat trichomoniasis in pregnancy women.
To prevent reinfection, the male should also be treated with metronidazole and should use condoms for a week after treatment. If your symptoms persist after your treatment is completed, call the clinic for another appointment. |
