Trichomoniasis

Fact sheet about trichomoniasis

What is trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis, sometimes called “trich”, is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a protozoan parasite. Most people with trichomoniasis do not have symptoms. Trichomoniasis that is not treated can cause severe symptoms and increase the risk of getting other STIs. This STI is most common in individuals with vaginas. This STI can be treated with medicine. An individual can be infected with trichomoniasis more than once; however, there are steps that can reduce their risk of acquiring trichomoniasis in the future. 

How does trichomoniasis spread?

Trichomoniasis spreads through sexual contact. It is most commonly spread through unprotected sex, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex, with someone who has the infection. The parasite that causes trichomoniasis spreads usually from a penis to a vagina, from a vagina to a penis, or from a vagina to another vagina. 

It is uncommon for the parasite to infect other body parts like the mouth or anus. The parasite is most commonly found in the vulva, vagina, cervix, or urethra, and inside the penis.

What are the signs and symptoms of trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis often has no noticeable symptoms but can still cause severe health problems. If there are symptoms, they can occur weeks after being infected or much later.

Symptoms:

• Itching, burning, redness, or soreness of the vagina 
• A clear, white, yellowish, or greenish vaginal discharge 
• Discomfort when peeing 
• Itching or irritation inside the penis 
• Burning after peeing or ejaculating 
• Discharge from the penis

Trichomoniasis can also make sex feel uncomfortable and unpleasant and can increase the risk of getting and spreading STIs.

What are my testing options?

You should see a healthcare provider if you experience symptoms of trichomoniasis or have had sex with someone who has trichomoniasis. Laboratory testing can diagnose trichomoniasis. 

What are my treatment options?

Trichomoniasis can be treated with the right medication from a healthcare provider. It is important to take all prescribed medication to cure the infection that causes trichomoniasis. Follow-up testing is necessary to make sure the treatment is successful. You should avoid sexual activity for at least seven days after both you and your partner(s) have completed the last dose of the treatment medication. It is possible to get trichomoniasis multiple times, even after being previously treated.

What happens if trichomoniasis is left untreated?

Trichomoniasis that is not treated may increase the risk of getting or spreading HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. In addition, pregnant people who have trichomoniasis are more likely to have their babies prematurely (early and when the babies are not fully grown). 

How can I prevent trichomoniasis?

There are a few steps you can take to stay safe and lower your risk of trichomoniasis:

• Use condoms the right way every time during sex and consider other barrier methods like dental dams.
• Limit your number of sexual partners with unknown STI status.
• Get tested if you have symptoms of trichomoniasis.

These steps can also help reduce your risk for other STIs and HIV. Medications like doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (Doxy PEP) can help prevent bacterial STIs after exposure, while HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (HIV PrEP) can reduce your risk of acquiring HIV. Take charge of your sexual health and talk to your provider about what methods are right for you.

Where can I get more information?

• Your doctor, nurse, or sexual and reproductive health provider
• Your health center or family planning clinic
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• The Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Division of STD Prevention & HIV Surveillance, Partner Services Program at [phone].
• Doxy PEP information from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health
• HIV PrEP information from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health