What should you know about the medical term trich?

Trichomoniasis is an infection caused by a small parasite. It commonly affects the vagina, cervix, urethra or penis. Possible symptoms include vaginal discharge, genital itching, soreness, burning with urination, pain during sex, or penile discharge. Many people have no noticeable symptoms.

A test result should be interpreted with the type of sample, your symptoms and your sexual-health history. The word trich describes the infection; it does not by itself identify when it began or which partner transmitted it.

If a clinician has mentioned trich, ask which test confirmed it and what treatment was prescribed. Share information about allergies, pregnancy, breastfeeding and other medicines before starting treatment. Take the medicine exactly as directed.

Follow instructions about avoiding sex until treatment is complete and partners have been assessed. Partners may need care even when they feel well. If symptoms persist, return for evaluation because another infection or reinfection may need attention.

Seek prompt medical attention for fever, pelvic pain, testicular pain or swelling, vomiting, pain during pregnancy, unusual bleeding, or symptoms that worsen quickly. Do not rely on the label trich to explain severe symptoms without an examination.

Ask what the test result means, whether a partner needs treatment, when sex can resume, whether other sexually transmitted infection tests are appropriate, and what follow-up is needed if symptoms remain.