Trichomoniasis

What is a Trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is a genital infection caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. The parasite prefers to live in the vagina, but can also live in the urethra (inside the penis) in men. Therefore it is mainly detected in women and is rarely diagnosed in men.

Prevalence of Trichomoniasis

It is one of the most common Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI's). It is estimated that up to one in five sexually active women will contact trichomoniasis during her lifetime.

How is it transmitted?

Trichomoniasis is transmitted through unprotected (without a condom) vaginal sex with someone who has the infection. Women can pass it on to men or women during sex, but men only seem to catch it from women.

Trichomonas vaginalis can also live for a few hours on items such as damp towels (but not toilet seats), so there is a possibility of it spreading this way. Therefore, do not share towels, washcloths and similar items.

It can rarely be passed on from mother to baby during birth.

Sex therapy and Relationship Counselling is available in Sydney, New South Wales (NSW) -  Melbourne, Victoria (VIC) -  Adalaide, South Australia (SA) -  Perth, Western Australia (WA) - Darwin, Northern Territories (NT) -  Hobart, Tasmania (TAS) - Brisbane, Queensland (QLD) - Canberra, Australian Capital territory (ACT)