Trichomoniasis is a common but often symptomless STI that can be cured with early diagnosis and treatment. [iStockphoto]
For many women, an unusual vaginal discharge or a persistent fishy smell is often mistaken for a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis. Others choose to self-medicate, hoping the symptoms will disappear on their own. Yet behind these common complaints could be one of the world's most widespread — and least talked about — sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Trichomoniasis, commonly known as "trich", is a curable STI caused not by bacteria or a virus but by a microscopic parasite known as Trichomonas vaginalis. Despite infecting millions of people worldwide each year, the infection often goes undetected because most people develop no symptoms, allowing it to spread silently between sexual partners.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), trichomoniasis is the most common non-viral sexually transmitted infection globally. In the United States alone, an estimated 3.7 million people are living with the infection, yet only about 30 per cent develop noticeable symptoms.
Dr Dennis Miskellah, a consultant gynaecologist, says the infection is far more common than many people realise.
