identification and evaluation of trichomonas vaginalis in wesley guild hospital ilesha, nigeria

the identification and evaluation of trichomonas vaginalis among women was performed over a period of three months in ilesha. the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of trichomonas vaginalis in women in relation to different samples collected and level of education. 310 samples from high vaginal, endocervical and urethral regions of female patients were analyzed using gram staining and direct microscopy. 25 samples (8.1%) were positive for trichomonas  vaginalis. out of the positive samples, 52%, 48% and 0% were collected from high vaginal, endocervical, and urethral regions, respectively.  age group 16-25 years had the highest prevalence: 15 (60%), followed by 26-35 years: 8 (32%), and the least represented age group correspond to 6-15 years: 2 (8%). less educated women had the highest prevalence of trichomonas vaginalis infection with 15 (60%) cases while 10 (40%) cases were present in educated women. the prevalence of trichomoniasis in the present study was high, but there was no significant difference in overall distribution of the parasite in high vaginal or endocervical swabs. therefore, either of the samples can be used for investigating trichomonas vaginalis infection in patients presenting the symptoms.