Each year there are about 156 million worldwide cases of trichomoniasis – more than chlamydia (127 million) and gonorrhoea (87 million). Professor John Alderete, from Washington State University (WSU), said trichomoniasis is the “most common STI you’ve probably never heard of”. He and his colleagues have developed a new, quick and cheap test for trichomoniasis.
At present, the diagnosis of trichomoniasis involves a physical examination, a vaginal or penile swab, and laboratory testing.
According to Professor Alderete, their new test can be performed in under five minutes and may only cost £16.
The new test, detailed in the journal Pathogens, requires only a drop of blood to detect an antibody specific to trichomoniasis.
Akin to Covid testing, if a person tests positive for trichomoniasis, a dot will appear in the display window of the testing device.
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While half of those infected will be symptomless, they can still pass the infection on to others.
If symptoms are present, in women it can cause:
- Abnormal vaginal discharge that may be thick, thin or frothy and yellow-green in colour
- Producing more discharge than normal, which may also have an unpleasant fishy smell
- Soreness, swelling and itching around the vagina – sometimes the inner thighs also become itchy
- Pain or discomfort when passing urine or having sex.
Symptoms in men can include:
- Pain when peeing or during ejaculation
- Needing to pee more frequently than usual
- Thin, white discharge from the penis
- Soreness, swelling and redness around the head of the penis or foreskin.
“Trichomoniasis is unlikely to go away without treatment, but it can be effectively treated with antibiotics,” the NHS adds.
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“Trichomoniasis is associated with an increased risk of cervical or prostate cancer,” the Mayo Clinic adds.
The best way to prevent trichomoniasis infection is to practise safe sex using condoms.
It’s also advised for both consenting adults to get tested before beginning a sexual relationship.
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