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Infections & STDs

Trichomonas Vaginalis (TV)

Trichomonas Vaginalis is a small parasite that causes an infection. In women, it's found in the vagina and urethra (tube where urine comes out). In men, it can infect the urethra.

HOW DO YOU GET IT?

You can get TV by having unprotected vaginal intercourse with an infected person. It is also possible for a pregnant woman to pass the infection on to her baby at birth.

SYMPTOMS

10-50% of people with TV do not have any symptoms. However if you do have symptoms, they could include:

Women:

• a thin and frothy discharge (usually fishy smelling)
• itchy, sore and swollen vagina, which may cause pain during intercourse.
• pain on passing urine

Men:

• a thin white discharge from the penis
• pain or burning sensation on passing urine
• and sometimes inflammation of the foreskin

If you have any of these symptoms, please contact 132 Healthwise to arrange a test.

DIAGNOSIS

If you think you may have been in contact with someone infected with TV, it is possible for TV to show up on the test result within a few days after you have a had sex. Therefore it is advised that you arrange an appointment straight away to come in and see the SH nurse.

Urine samples may also be taken in men and women to diagnose TV.

The samples will then be analysed at the laboratory and results will be usually ready within a few days.

It is recommended that a screen for other infections be performed during your examination and GUM appointment.

If you think you need a test, please contact 132 Healthwise.