Vaginal trichomoniasis, a type of vaginal infection caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis, is the most common cause of vaginitis in the women of reproductive age group. Suffering would be less, if women are able to identify the condition in time and take proper treatment. Here are the symptoms of Vaginal trichomoniasis, which every woman should know.
Symptoms of vaginal trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis in women is clinically manifested by the following features:
1. Profuse discharge from the vagina
There is sudden, profuse discharge from the vagina:
- The typical discharge of trichomoniasis is frothy, creamy and thin.
- It is, often, greenish-yellow in colour.
- It has an offensive smell.
2. Irritation and itching of vulvar tissue
Along with vaginal discharge, woman complains of persistent burning and itching, inside and around the vaginal opening. Vulva becomes red and inflamed.
3. Urinary complaints
Patient of vaginal trichomoniasis may also have urinary complaints, like:
- Difficulty or pain during urination
- Frequent urging to urinate
4. Pain during coitus
Patient may complain of pain during coitus, due to inflammation of the vagina. Vaginal wall becomes red and inflamed with several hemorrhagic spots, giving it a 'strawberry' appearance.
5. Symptoms of superimposed pelvic infection
If pelvic infection occurs with vaginal trichomoniasis, patient will also have these complaints:
- Pain in abdomen
- Low back pain
How is the parasite transmitted to the vagina?
Trichomonas vaginalis is transmitted to the vagina in one of the following ways:
Mode #1 Mostly, transmission occurs through sexual contact with infected man, who harbours the parasite in urethra and prostate.
Mode #2 It can also be transmitted by use of infected person's towels, clothes etc.
Mode #3 Parasite may be transmitted from one woman to the other through toilet articles.
Mode #4 Trichomonas may be transmitted to the vagina through examining gloves.
Incubation Period
Time interval between transmission of parasite and appearance of symptoms is 3 to 28 days.
High risk period for infection
The infective organism thrives well in the vagina, when the local defence is weak, such as:
- During and after menstruation
- After sexual stimulation
- During pregnancy
- After vaginal surgery
Conclusion
Trichomoniasis vaginalis is a common form of vaginitis, found mostly in the women of reproductive age group. Patient complains of a sudden and profuse discharge from the vagina, which is frothy, greenish and offensive; associated with persistent itching and burning of the vulvar tissue. There may be pain during coitus and urination. Infection is transmitted through coitus or use of infected person's articles.
More articles on Women's Health
