Trichomonas vaginalis in vaginal smears of women using intrauterine contraceptive device.

To detect the association between the use of an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) and the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis (Tv), vaginal smears of 1110 women were examined cytologically. Among 45 IUCD users, 10 women were positive for Tv (22.22%). Forty six of 1065 non-users were also positive for Tv (4.32%). 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 (> or = 3 years) of copper-IUCD may promote the growth of Tv in the vaginal mucosa. This result will be a clue to diagnose asymptomatic patients for Tv.