What should you know about pregnancy and trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite and spreads through sexual contact. Some people have no symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may include unusual vaginal discharge, genital irritation, itching, burning with urination or discomfort during sex. Symptoms alone cannot confirm the infection because other vaginal conditions can look similar. Testing may involve a vaginal sample or another test chosen by the clinician. An untreated infection can matter in pregnancy, so mention it during antenatal care even if symptoms are mild or absent.

Take the prescribed medicine exactly as directed and tell the clinician about allergies, other medicines and how far along the pregnancy is. Avoid sex until treatment is complete as advised and sexual partners have been assessed and treated when indicated; otherwise reinfection can occur. Do not use leftover antibiotics, vaginal washes or non-prescribed remedies. Ask whether repeat testing or a follow-up visit is needed. A clinician can also discuss safer-sex measures and test for other sexually transmitted infections.

Contact your maternity team promptly for fever, lower abdominal pain, painful urination, bleeding, leaking fluid, contractions, reduced fetal movement or rapidly worsening symptoms. Seek emergency care for severe pain, heavy bleeding, fainting or feeling seriously unwell. If discharge or itching persists after treatment, arrange review rather than repeating medicine yourself.

Which test confirms trichomoniasis? Is the recommended treatment suitable at my stage of pregnancy? Should my partner be treated, and when can we resume sex? Do I need testing for other infections or a follow-up sample?