Definition for Trichomoniasis
From Biology Forums Dictionary
Sexual activity can transmit several protozoa, including intestinal parasites such as Giardia andCryptosporidium; however, this is not the regular way these protozoa are infective. The protozoan Trichomonas normally infects the reproductive system.
Trichomonads are flagellated protozoan parasites of animals and humans. Trichomonas vaginalis is the one pathogenic species, causing an STD called trichomoniasis. Infection is asymptomatic in males. In females, it causes a foul-smelling, yellow-green vaginal discharge and vaginal irritation. There may also be lesions of the genitalia, abdominal pain, dysuria, and pain during sexual intercourse. Rarely, infected males develop urethritis or prostatitis. The fetus of an infected mother can become infected during vaginal birth. Treatment involves the patient and all sexual contacts, and is with metronidazole taken orally. Babies are protected by treating infected mothers with metronidazole before they give birth. Prevention requires abstinence or monogamy.
