What is a trichomonas infection?
An infection with trichomonads, also called trichomoniasis, is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases. It is a parasitic infection especially in women. Although the infection is asymptomatic in most cases, typical symptoms can occur, such as an unpleasant green-yellowish discharge. The suspicion of an infection can already be assumed with the patient’s medical history and confirmed by special tests. The therapy is carried out with antibiotics, whereby the partner should always be treated as well.
Causes of trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is the world’s most common sexually transmitted disease (STD), affecting 170 million people every year. It is relatively rare in Germany; patients in Germany are often infected by foreign sexual partners on vacation. The pathogen is a pear-shaped protozoan called Trichomonas vaginalis.
This is a parasite that is able to survive mainly in sperm or vaginal secretion. According to this, there is a direct transmission from one partner to the other during sexual intercourse. Often, however, it is not solely responsible for the infection, but leads to a so-called mixed infection with other bacteria.
In very rare cases, indirect transmission can also occur, for example when bathing in a swimming pool or on the toilet. Since in most cases the infection runs for months or years without symptoms, those affected are often unaware that they are ill and unknowingly pass on the parasites during unprotected sexual intercourse. Often changing sexual partners increase the risk of infection.
Transmission path
In most cases, transmission occurs directly from host to host during unprotected sexual intercourse. Since the parasite lives in the sperm or vaginal mucus, it can switch from one partner to another via these fluids. The acidic and humid environment inside the vagina provides a good habitat for the parasite, while outside the body it is not able to survive for long. Through the vagina, the parasite can then stay in the female sexual organs, but preferably remains in the vagina. In men, it usually nests in the urethra, prostate or foreskin of the penis.
