A common sexually transmitted disease, Trichomoniasis causes a frothy yellow-green discharge with an extremely foul odour. It also triggers pain while urinating, and discomfort and a burning sensation during sex.

These symptoms are usually evident after a week of exposure to the disease. However, men rarely show symptoms, which makes it difficult to detect and stop the disease from spreading.

Trichomoniasis is completely curable, but there is a chance of a relapse if one of the partners isn't completely cured. Using condoms during intercourse may prevent the relapse.

If either of you have any of the symptoms of Trichomoniasis, you both must visit your gynaecologist immediately.

Prevention Is Best

While you cannot completely avoid vaginal infections, you can reduce your chances of getting one by maintaining through vaginal hygiene.If you are pregnant, be especially careful. It is when these infections are most frequent, and if left untreated, can cause serious problems during childbirth.

If you have been sexually active for over a year, it's best to get a Pap-smear test once a year.

Lastly, remember to treat all vaginal infections in time - the reproductive organs are sensitive and easily develop complications like PID and cervical or ovarian cancer.

Common Symptoms of Vaginal Infections

• Any abnormal discharge that has different colour / odour
• Itching and irritation of the vagina and vulva
• Redness, swelling, lumps
• Pain and irritation while urinating
• Unusual pain during menstrual periods
• Small, very tender ulcer-like legions that are sensitive to water
• Rashes in and around the area
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Mid-cycle spotting (Any kind of stains, spotting between your regular period cycle)

Don't take any of these symptoms lightly. Besides harmless vaginal infections, they are also signs of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) including HIV-AIDS. Visit your gynaecologist immediately and get a swab test done.