Trichomoniasis Vaginalis

Causative Organism

Flagellate protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis (TV).

Symptoms

• Asymptomatic in up to 50% of women.

  • Vaginal discharge with (vulvovaginitis).
  • TV is sexually transmitted and treatment of partners is required.
  • Yellow-green, frothy discharge
  • Bad odour.

• There is an association with pregnancy outcome:

  • Preterm birth.
  • Low birthweight
  • Maternal postpartum sepsis.

On Examination

• Strawberry appearance of the cervix.

Tests

• Nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) preferably on a vaginal or endocervical swab or on urine.
• Some NAATs also detect Neisseria gonorrhoea and Chlamydia trachomatis on the same sample.
• Culture
• PCR.

Treatment

• Is with a systemic metronidazole regime.