Guidelines
Trichomonas vaginalis

Trichomonas vaginalis

General Information

Trichomoniasis is a genitourinary infection with the protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis. It is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) worldwide. Women are affected more often than men with vaginitis and discharge being the most common symptoms. The majority of men infected with T. vaginalis are asymptomatic, but some may have mild urethritis. Untreated male partners are a significant source of reinfection.

Testing

On all genital STI samples, Island Health uses a molecular STI Pathogen Panel that tests for Chlamydia trachomatisNeisseria gonorrhoea and Trichomonas vaginalis. All requests for Chlamydia trachomatis and/or Neisseria gonorrhoea and/or Trichomonas vaginalis will result in testing for all three pathogens from any genital sample. The new combined assay is referred to as the STI Pathogen Panel and this is now the preferred order.

Preferred testing specimen varies by syndrome. Please ensure the correct STI swab is submitted to avoid rejection:

  • A vaginal swab (can be self collected) is preferred in women.
  • First catch urine can also be done in women but it is somewhat less sensitive than vaginal swab. Volume of urine for STI testing should be no more than 60 mL.
  • First catch urine is preferred in men; a urethral swab can also be collected. Volume of urine for STI testing should be no more than 60 mL.
  • Samples from extra-genital anatomic sites are not validated for testing.

Treatment

  • Metronidazole is safe in pregnancy and during lactation.
  • Current partners should be treated for trichomoniasis, regardless of symptoms (it is not necessary to screen partners for trichomonas). Treat sexual partners with the same therapy as recommended for the case. Reinfection is common if partners are not treated.

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