What happens if trichomoniasis is left untreated?

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite. Some people have few or no symptoms, while others develop frothy or unusual discharge, genital irritation, itching, soreness, or discomfort when urinating or having sex. Symptoms can settle and return without the infection being gone.

Without treatment, a person may pass the infection to a partner and become reinfected if partners are not assessed and treated when advised. Infection during pregnancy needs prompt discussion with a maternity clinician. Similar symptoms can have other causes, so testing is needed rather than relying on appearance; see [Vaginal Discharge](/symptoms/vaginal-discharge/) and [Vaginal Itching](/symptoms/vaginal-itching/).

Arrange a sexual-health or gynaecology appointment for testing and prescribed treatment. Avoid sex until your clinician says it is safe, and tell recent partners so they can receive advice. Take the medicine exactly as directed and return if symptoms remain or come back; antibiotic treatment may be recommended for related pelvic infection when clinically appropriate.

Seek prompt care for pelvic or lower-abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, pain during sex, unusual bleeding, or feeling unwell. Contact a maternity clinician promptly if you are pregnant or may be pregnant and have symptoms or a positive test.

Ask which tests are needed, when partners should be treated, how long to avoid sex, whether other sexually transmitted infections should be checked, and what to do if symptoms persist.