How long do antibiotics take to work for trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is an infection caused by a parasite. It can cause unusual vaginal discharge, irritation, soreness, burning when urinating, or discomfort during sex, although some people have no symptoms. Symptoms can take longer to disappear than the infection itself, and irritation may linger while tissues recover.

Persistent or returning discharge, odour, itching, or burning can mean reinfection, an untreated partner, missed doses, or another condition. A clinician may recommend testing or a different treatment rather than simply repeating medicine without assessment.

Take the prescribed medicine as instructed and avoid sex until treatment is complete, symptoms have settled, and partners have received the advice or treatment recommended by a clinician. This helps reduce passing the infection back and forth. Avoid sharing medicine, and ask about alcohol or other medicine interactions before taking treatment.

Use gentle, unscented products around the vulva and avoid douching, which can worsen irritation. Arrange follow-up if symptoms remain, return, or occur during pregnancy. Tell the clinician about new medicines, allergies, or a missed dose.

Arrange prompt assessment for pelvic pain, fever, bleeding after sex, pain during pregnancy, sores, or symptoms that are worsening rather than settling. Seek urgent help for severe pelvic pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, or feeling acutely unwell, as these symptoms can point to another infection or complication.

Ask when sex can safely resume, how partners should be treated, whether retesting is needed, and what to do after vomiting or a missed dose. Ask whether another cause should be checked if discharge or irritation continues.