Abstract
Background: Trichomonas vaginalis is a common pathogen that is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes and may serve as a cofactor in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission. Goal: To define the epidemiology of trichomoniasis in a population of newly incarcerated pregnant women in New York City. Study Design: Prospective study of 213 pregnant prisoners attending prenatal clinic. Patients participated in an interview regarding sexual and drug-related behaviors, and underwent direct culture for T. vaginalis in addition to routine testing for syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. Results: The prevalence of trichomoniasis was 46.9%. On univariate analysis, there was a significant association between trichomoniasis and older age, crack use, prostitution, known HIV infection, and positive serological test for syphilis. Multivariate analysis showed a significant association of trichomoniasis with crack use and positive serological test for syphilis. Conclusions: Trichomoniasis is highly prevalent in pregnant prisoners in New York City. The extent of disease observed may justify a formal program of testing and treatment and emphasizes the urgent need for harm reduction education and expanded HIV counseling and testing services in this high-risk population.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 303-307 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Sexually Transmitted Diseases |
Volume | 25 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jul 1998 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Dermatology
- Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health
- Microbiology (medical)
- Infectious Diseases