Interventions for trichomoniasis in pregnancy

RHL practical aspects by Walker G

FIRST CONTACT (PRIMARY CARE LEVEL)

Pregnant women with symptoms of infection with Trichomoniasis vaginalis can be identified by microscopic examination of vaginal secretions. Depending on the training and skill of the health worker, microscopic examination should correctly identify most cases of infections. If a microscope is not available, women should be treated using a clinical algorithm for the management of vaginal discharge. Partners should be treated to prevent reinfection and transmission to others. To improve partner treatment rates see also Cochrane Review on partner notification strategies.

REFERRAL HOSPITAL (SECONDARY CARE) LEVEL

Because treatment of trichomoniasis is simple and highly successful, very few women are likely to need referral to the secondary care level. Referral will usually be needed only in cases in which routine management of vaginal discharge fails at the primary care level, and trichomoniasis is being considered as only one of several possible causes of the discharge. In such cases, efforts at the secondary level should be directed toward identifying the cause of the discharge.

AT HOME OR IN THE COMMUNITY

Not applicable.


This document should be cited as: Walker G. Interventions for trichomoniasis in pregnancy: RHL practical aspects (last revised: 27 August 2004). The WHO Reproductive Health Library; Geneva: World Health Organization.

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