Trichomonas vaginalis in vaginal smears of women using intrauterine contraceptive device

ABSTRACT

To detect the association between the use of an intrauterine contraceptive device [IUCD] and the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis [Tv] in the vaginal smears. Vaginal smears were collected from 800 women who attended the Gynaecology and Obstetrics unit at Federal Government Hospital [Polyclinic] Islamabad, between June 1995 ' June 1997. Among 45 IUCD users, 15 women were positive for Tv [33.33%]. Forty two of 755 non-users were also positive for Tv [5.56%]. There was a significant correlation between the use of IUCD and the presence of Tv [p<0.05]. The data also indicated that the prolonged use [>3 years] of copper-IUCD may promote the growth of Tv in the vaginal mucosa. The use of copper IUCD for a long period causes growth of Tv on the genital mucosa so special attention should be paid to women who have prolonged copper-IUCD for the possible presence of Tv