Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis, also known as trich (say "trick"), is an infection caused by a parasite. It spreads through sexual contact (sexually transmitted infection).
Most people don't have any symptoms of trich. But it may cause symptoms such as an abnormal discharge from the vagina or penis and pain during urination or sex.
The infection is treated with antibiotics. If you're infected, it's important for your sex partner to take medicine too.
What are the symptoms of trichomoniasis (trich)?
Most people don't have any symptoms of trich. If you do have symptoms, they usually start within 1 week after you were infected. But symptoms can develop months later.
Symptoms may include:
- Abnormal discharge from the vagina or penis.
- Irritation or itching in the genital area.
- Pain or burning when you urinate.
- Pain during sex.
How is trichomoniasis (trich) diagnosed?
To diagnose trich, your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms and your sexual history. You may also have a physical exam. This includes a visual exam of your vulva or penis. The doctor will look for patchy red spots that are caused by trich. Any discharge will be checked for color, odor, and texture.
Several types of tests can be used to diagnose trich. Most use a sample of urine or a swab from the cervix or vagina.
How is trichomoniasis (trich) treated?
Trich is treated with antibiotics such as metronidazole or tinidazole. These medicines kill the parasite that causes the infection. The medicine is usually taken by mouth as pills, tablets, or capsules.
Vaginal creams and suppositories can help ease symptoms, but they won't cure trich.
Your sex partner or partners should be treated at the same time as you are treated. This increases the cure rate and helps prevent you from spreading the disease or getting it again.
Trich during pregnancy raises the risk of prelabor rupture of membranes (PROM) and preterm delivery. Treating the infection may not always reduce this risk. But it can relieve symptoms and prevent infection in the newborn.
It's possible to get trich again. So take steps to reduce your risk for trich and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
If symptoms don't go away, you may need to take the medicine again.
How can you care for yourself when you have trichomoniasis (trich)?
- Take your antibiotics as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
- Do not have sex while you are being treated. If your doctor gave you a single dose of antibiotics, do not have sex for one week after being treated and until your partner also has been treated.
- Tell your sex partner (or partners) that they will also need to be tested and treated.
- Use a cold water compress or cool baths to relieve itching.
Trichomoniasis: When to call
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have unusual vaginal bleeding.
- You have a fever.
- You have new discharge from the vagina or penis.
- You have pelvic pain.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You do not get better as expected.
- You have any new symptoms or your symptoms get worse.
©2011-2025 Healthwise, Incorporated