Trichomonas

Trichomonas Treatment in Nottingham

Serving: Nottingham, Derby, Leicester, Mansfield, Sheffield and the wider Midlands area

What is Trichomonas?

Trichomonas vaginalis (often referred to as ‘TV’ or ‘trich’) is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a microscopic parasite. It primarily affects the vagina in women and the urethra in men. Despite a decline in incidence in the UK in recent years, with approximately 6,000 cases diagnosed annually in clinics, it remains an important STI to be aware of and tested for if symptoms occur.

Symptoms of Trichomonas

Symptoms in Women

Many women with Trichomonas (approximately 50%) may not experience any symptoms at all. When symptoms do occur, they typically appear 5 to 28 days after infection, although they may develop much later. Common symptoms include:

A yellow-green, frothy vaginal discharge that often has an unpleasant fishy odour
Intense vulval soreness, itching, or redness
Discomfort or pain during urination
Pain during sexual intercourse
Abdominal pain or discomfort
Inflammation of the vagina (vaginitis)

Symptoms in Men

Men rarely experience symptoms, which contributes to why the infection can be passed on unknowingly. When symptoms do occur in men, they may include:

Discharge from the penis (which may be clear or cloudy white)
Discomfort or pain when urinating
Increased frequency of urination
Pain or soreness in the penis, testicles, or during ejaculation

How is Trichomonas Transmitted?

Trichomonas is primarily transmitted through:

Unprotected vaginal sexual contact
Sharing sex toys that have not been properly cleaned
Skin-to-skin contact of the genital area
It is important to note that Trichomonas cannot be transmitted through:
Oral or anal sex
Kissing or hugging
Sharing household items such as towels, toilet seats, or cutlery

Diagnosis

If you suspect you may have contracted Trichomonas, it is important to visit a sexual health clinic or GP for proper diagnosis. Diagnosis involves:

For women: A vaginal swab test to collect a sample, which is then examined in a laboratory
For men: A urine sample or urethral swab may be taken, although testing in men is less reliable, and they are often treated based on a partner’s diagnosis

Treatment

Trichomonas is unlikely to resolve without treatment and is easily treated with antibiotics. The most common treatment is:

Metronidazole tablets – either taken as a single high dose or as a course of tablets (typically twice daily for 5-7 days)

Important considerations during treatment:

You must avoid alcohol while taking metronidazole and for 48 hours after completing the course, as the combination can cause severe nausea, vomiting, and other unpleasant reactions
Most people notice an improvement in symptoms within a few days of starting treatment
It is essential to complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms subside
You should avoid sexual contact until at least one week after both you and your partner(s) have completed treatment
Current and recent sexual partners should also be tested and treated, even if they do not have symptoms

If symptoms persist after treatment, a return visit to the healthcare provider is recommended, as a different antibiotic or longer course may be needed.

Complications if Left Untreated

If Trichomonas is not treated properly, it can lead to several complications:

Increased susceptibility to HIV transmission and acquisition
Higher risk of bacterial vaginosis
In women, it may lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause pelvic pain and potentially affect fertility
In men, it may cause inflammation of the prostate gland (prostatitis)

Trichomonas During Pregnancy

For pregnant women, untreated Trichomonas infection may lead to:

Premature birth
Low birth weight in babies
Increased risk of transmission to the baby during birth
Higher risk of postpartum infection for the mother

Prevention

To reduce the risk of contracting or spreading Trichomonas:

Use condoms consistently and correctly during vaginal sex
Avoid sharing sex toys, or clean them thoroughly between uses and cover with a new condom each time
Get tested regularly for STIs, particularly if you have a new sexual partner
Ensure all partners are tested and treated if an infection is detected
Limit the number of sexual partners to reduce exposure risk

When to Seek Medical Advice

You should visit a sexual health clinic or GP if:

You notice any unusual discharge, odour, or discomfort in the genital area
You have pain or burning during urination
A sexual partner informs you they have been diagnosed with Trichomonas or another STI
You have had unprotected sex with a new partner
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing complications and further transmission of the infection.

Book Your Confidential Trichomonas Treatment Today

Taking control of your sexual health starts with regular screening. Book your confidential Trichomonas Treatment appointment at our Nottingham clinic today.