The most commonly diagnosed STI is chlamydia, which encompasses 49% of all new diagnoses. However, other and lesser-known sexually transmitted diseases are on the rise.
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection that can affect both men and women. Sometimes known as trichomonas, the infection is caused by a parasite called trichomonas vaginalis (TV).
New research suggests that it disproportionately affects women from ethnic minorities and deprived backgrounds.
The infection is especially concerning when it affects women as it can cause complications in birth if it goes untreated.
GP and Clinical Technology Lead at Lloyds Pharmacy Online Doctor Dr Sameer Sanghvi discusses potential early warning signs to spot.
What is trichomoniasis?
“In my experience, while most people have heard of gonorrhoea, chlamydia and herpes, not many patients know about trichomoniasis (also known as trichomonas or ‘trich’),” he began.
“Unfortunately, it’s a common STI so it’s important we understand the infection and its risks.
“As an STI, trich is easy to treat. However, untreated, it can increase your risk of becoming infected with HIV and cause serious complications in pregnant women.
“It’s also often symptomless which means people are more likely to pass it on to others.
The STI is commonly spread through unprotected sex and sharing of sex toys.
It is not passed on through oral or anal sex, however.
“Like all STIs, you don’t have to have many sexual partners to catch trichomoniasis.
“Anybody who’s sexually active can catch it and pass it on,” added Dr Sanghvi.
To help reduce your risk of catching the virus its strongly advised to wear a condom when having sex and when using sex toys.
Trichomoniasis symptoms
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Symptoms are said to differ in men and women.
Trichomoniasis symptoms in women:
- Changes in colour, consistency, smell or quantity of vaginal discharge including an unpleasant fishy smell, a yellow-green colour or a thick, thin or frothy consistency
- Soreness, swelling and itching around the vagina or inner thighs
- Pain or discomfort when you pee or have sex.
Trichomoniasis symptoms in men:
- Pain during when you pee or needing to pee more frequently
- Soreness, swelling and redness around the foreskin or head of the penis
- Thin, white discharge from the penis
- Pain during ejaculation.
Dr Sanghvi added: “Symptoms of trichomoniasis usually develop within a month of infection.
“However, around half of people with trichomoniasis won’t present with any symptoms.
“This doesn’t mean they’re not able to pass the infection on to others which is why testing is paramount.
“If you notice any of the symptoms of trichomoniasis or have had sex with somebody who has tested positive for trichomoniasis, it’s important to get tested.”
To get a diagnosis you can either make an appointment with your GP, visit your local sexual health clinic or purchase an at-home STI test online.
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