Community Health Network

• Seeking information about trichomonas, a sexually transmitted disease (STD)

• Trichomonas is caused by the Trichomonas vaginalis protozoa.
• Trichomonas is a common STD. It has been estimated that there are eight million new cases each year in North America.
• Trichomonas is treatable with antibiotics.

Typical Symptoms of Trichomonas

• In women, trichomonas may cause a foul-odored, yellow, sometimes bubbly vaginal discharge. It may also cause vaginal itching and redness, or burning with urination.
• Some women have no symptoms.
• Most men with a trichomonas infection have no symptoms. Sometimes there may be a mild burning with urination or a discharge from the penis.

What is a Normal versus Abnormal Vaginal Discharge?>

• Normal: May be clear or white, thin or thick. It is not odorous and there is no itching.

What is a Normal versus Abnormal Vaginal Discharge?

• Normal: May be clear or white, thin or thick. It is not odorous and there is no itching.
• Abnormal:
  • Yellow or green vaginal discharge is usually from an infection.
  • A foul-smelling discharge is usually from an infection.
  • A thick, white, itchy, cottage cheese-like non-odorous discharge is often caused by a yeast infection.

1. American Social Health Association
   • “Answers to your questions about teen sexual health and sexually transmitted diseases”.
   • http://www.iwannaknow.org
2. Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines 2002. MMWR. 2002; 51(RR-6):1-80.
3. Public Health Agency of Canada
   • Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI), Sexual Health Facts and Information
   • http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/std-mts/faq_e.aspxl