Vaginal Infection: Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is often called “trich.” It is caused by a parasite that is passed during sex. Men with trich often don’t have any symptoms. So they don’t know that they are infected. In women, it can take weeks or months before symptoms develop.
Symptoms of Trichomoniasis
Foamy gray or yellow-green discharge
Foul odor
Intense vaginal itching, redness, and swelling at opening of vagina
Pain during sex
Treating Trichomoniasis
Trich is treated with antibiotics. Be sure that you:
Finish all of your medication. This is true even if your symptoms go away.
Avoid alcohol until you’re done with all your medication.
Tell your partner so that he can seek treatment and be tested for other STDs.
Avoid sex until you and your partner are both done with treatment.
Why Treatment Matters
Untreated trich can lead to problems. These include:
Increased risk of preterm delivery if you are pregnant
An abnormal Pap test result
Possible increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)