Trichomoniasis SymptomTrichomoniasis is an STD. The incubation period before the appearance of the first trichomoniasis symptom is not known, but in vitro (test-tube) studies suggest an incubation period of 4 to 28 days.1 Trichomoniasis symptoms in womenSymptoms in women include vaginal discharge, strong smell and itchiness. Some women have lower abdominal pain and some have pain with intercourse.42% of women with trich have a vaginal discharge, 50% have odor, and 22 to 37% have redness and swelling. Almost half of all women have NO symptoms of trich.1 Although often described as being a frothy discharge, it is actually frothy in only about 10% of patients. There is often a yellow-green vaginal discharge but again it may vary in color.1 Colpitis macularis (strawberry cervix) is a specific clinical sign for this infection but is usually detected only by colposcopy and rarely during routine examination. The urethra is also infected in the majority of women and some women experience pain during urination. Vaginal pH is greater than 4.5 in most women, but it is possible for it to be normal.1 It is believed that the inflammation caused by trich can increase a woman's chance of catching HIV if she is exposed to the virus.2 Bacterial vaginosis is often present at the same time so if a woman has a discharge after trich has been treated, then that should be followed up. Symptoms of trichomoniasis in menThe majority of men do not show any symptoms of trich. If they do, it is usually a temporary irritation inside the penis. Some men have a slight discharge and slight burning after urinating or sex (after ejaculation).2 In both men and women, if signs of trich are noticed, sexual partners should be told and sexual intercourse stop until after trichomoniasis treatment and symptom free. 1. Jane R. Schwebke and Donald Burgess. Trichomoniasis. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2004 October; 17(4): 794–803. doi: 10.1128/CMR.17.4.794-803.2004. 2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention TOP of Trichomoniasis Symptom
|
