What should you know about transmission of trichomonas vaginalis?

The parasite can pass between sexual partners during vaginal sex and genital contact. A person may carry trichomoniasis without noticeable symptoms and still transmit it. Symptoms, when present, can include unusual discharge, irritation, itching, burning when urinating or discomfort during sex. Symptoms alone cannot identify the infection; testing is needed.

Trichomoniasis is not diagnosed by assuming that a symptom has one cause. Other vaginal infections can look similar. The infection can persist without treatment, so a positive result should lead to a treatment and partner-management plan.

Arrange sexual-health assessment if you have symptoms or a partner has been diagnosed. Avoid sex until treatment is completed as advised and partners have been assessed or treated. Using condoms consistently can reduce transmission, although no method removes every possibility of infection.

Take prescribed medicine for the full course and do not share it. Partners may need treatment even if they feel well. Arrange retesting if your clinician recommends it, especially if symptoms return. Read about [Vaginal Discharge](/symptoms/vaginal-discharge/) and [Vaginal Itching](/symptoms/vaginal-itching/) if these are part of your concern.

Seek prompt medical care for pelvic pain, fever, pain during sex, bleeding after sex, pregnancy with symptoms, or symptoms that persist after treatment. Urgent assessment is needed for severe pelvic pain, fainting or feeling acutely unwell. These signs can indicate a complication or another condition needing different treatment.

Ask which test is appropriate, whether current or recent partners need treatment, how long to avoid sex, whether other infections should be checked, and what to do if symptoms remain after the medicine ends.