8 Trichomonas vagina/is in human reproduction

It has almost been 150 years since Donne first identified Trichomonas vaginalis as the causative agent of the vaginitis in some women presenting with vaginal discharge and irritation (Donne, 1863). The introduction of the drug metronidazole (Flagyl) revolutionized the therapy of this infection. Despite the availability of this drug, it is estimated that trichomoniasis is still the second or third most common venereal disease, depending on whether gonorrhea or chlamydia represents the most prevalent sexually transmitted disease in a community. Recent reports have discussed the possible association of trichomoniasis with human infertility; this association will be detailed in this chapter.