What should you know about how trichomoniasis is transmitted?

The infection can pass between sexual partners even when the infected person has no symptoms. Symptoms may include vaginal discharge, genital irritation, burning during urination or discomfort during sex, but symptoms alone cannot confirm the cause.

A diagnosis requires appropriate testing. Having trichomoniasis does not prove when transmission happened, because the infection may be unrecognised for some time. It is not a reason to assign blame to either partner.

Arrange testing if you have symptoms or a partner has been diagnosed. Take prescribed treatment exactly as directed, and discuss partner treatment with the clinician. Avoid sex until the clinician says it is safe and treatment instructions have been completed.

Condoms and other barrier methods can reduce exposure, although they may not cover every area involved in genital contact. Do not share leftover medicine. Further reading includes Vaginal Discharge, Vaginal Itching and Antibiotic Treatment for Pelvic Infection.

Seek prompt care for pelvic pain, fever, pain during sex, unusual bleeding, worsening symptoms or pregnancy with possible infection. Urgent assessment is needed if you feel faint, severely unwell or have intense abdominal pain.

Ask which test you need, whether partners should be treated, how long to avoid sex, whether other infections should be checked, and when a repeat assessment is needed if symptoms remain.