Trichomoniasis (in females)

This is most common in females between 18 and 35 years. It is usually, but not always, sexually acquired. The incubation period is 4 days to 3 weeks.

Trichomoniasis can increase the risk of HIV infection. It is also associated with (1,2):

• pelvic inflammatory disease
• pregnancy complications including preterm delivery and low birth weight
• infections after delivery, surgery, and abortion

Key points (3):

• oral treatment needed as extravaginal infection common
• treat partners, and refer to GUM for other STIs.
• pregnant/breastfeeding:
  • avoid 2g single dose metronidazole;
  • clotrimazole for symptom relief (not cure) if metronidazole declined

Reference:

• (1) RCGP and BASHH (2006) Sexually transmitted infections in primary care. Royal College of General Practitioners.
• (2) Eckert LO. Acute vulvovaginitis. N Engl J Med. 2006; 355(12):1244-52.
• (3) Public Health England (June 2021). Managing common infections: guidance for primary care