Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis (“trich”) is an infection caused by Trichomonas vaginalis that can be found in the urethra, bladder, vagina, cervix, or under the foreskin of the penis.

Globally, it is considered the most common non-viral STI. The prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis is 3.1 % among women of reproductive ages from 14-49.

What you should know

Risks for transmission

Trichomoniasis is more common in people who have multiple sexual partners

It can be transmitted through unprotected sexual activity, including mutual masturbation and sharing of sex toys

Symptoms

Men tend to have fewer symptoms than women
10-50% of infected people don’t have symptoms

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Female

Itchiness
Vaginal discharge is off-white or yellowish-green, frothy, and malodorous
Pain or burning while urinating
Pain during intercourse

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Male

Pain or burning while urinating
Discharge from the penis

Prevention

Condoms can help prevent the spread of Trichomoniasis.

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Testing

Testing for Trichomoniasis is done by physical exam, examining discharge under a microscope, and swabbing the affected area for culture
If the test comes back positive for Trichomoniasis (for either you or your partner(s),) you may need to have further tests done to check for other possible infections

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Treatment

Trichomoniasis can be treated with oral antibiotics by mouth
Both sexual partners should receive treatment

It is important to get treated early to prevent complications
No sexual intercourse until the treatment is completed for both partners

Complications

Trichomoniasis infections can increase the risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV for both men and women.

“Trich” may occur in conjunction with other STIs, such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, HIV and hepatitis B.

In pregnancy, Trichomoniasis infection may increase the risk of pre-term delivery, premature rupture of the membranes or low birth weight.