Trichomoniasis
Essential facts
Trichomoniasis is a condition caused by the organism
Trichomonas vaginalis. Infection in women usually produces an offensive,
heavy vaginal discharge. It may be accompanied by itching and burning.
However, some women may be infected without any symptoms. Men usually
don't have symptoms and act as carriers of the infection.
Transmission
The infection is caught by sexual contact with an
infected person, but occasionally may recur after the initial infection
has been treated.
Treatment
Treatment is with antibiotic tablets, either tinidazole
(Fasigyn) which is taken as a single large dose, or metronidazole, which
is taken over 5 days.
Regular sexual partners should also be tested and
treated to prevent reinfection. Do not have intercourse until a further
test shows that you have been cured.
Directions for taking the antibiotics
- Metronidazole may cause nausea or an upset stomach.
You can reduce these side effects by taking the tablets after meals.
- Some people experience an unpleasant taste in the
mouth when taking metronidazole. This subsides soon after the
treatment is completed.
- Avoid alcohol during treatment and for 3 days after
treatment, or a severe hangover may result.
- Do not take tinidazole if you are pregnant or
breastfeeding.
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