Trichomoniasis
(trick oh mo NEYE ah sis)
"Trich" is a condition caused by a protozoan — a microscopic, one-cell animal. It is a common cause of vaginal infection. More than seven million Americans are infected with trichomoniasis every year.
Common symptoms — if they occur
- frothy, often unpleasant-smelling discharge
- itching in and around the vagina
- blood spotting in the discharge
- swelling in the groin
- urinating more often than usual — often with pain and burning
Only rarely do men have symptoms. Sometimes women have no symptoms. It takes from three to 28 days for symptoms to develop.
How trichomoniasis is spread: vaginal intercourse; mutual masturbation; if fluids from one partner are passed to the genitals of the other
Diagnosis: microscopic examination of vaginal discharge
Treatment: Both partners can be successfully treated with drugs.
Protection: Condoms reduce the risk of infection with trich.
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