What should you know about trichomoniasis in humans?

The infection can affect the vagina, vulva, cervix, urethra or penis. A person may notice irritation, burning during urination, discomfort during sex, or a change in genital discharge. Some people have no noticeable symptoms, so feeling well does not rule it out. Symptoms such as vaginal discharge or vaginal itching can have several causes; they cannot identify trichomoniasis by themselves.

It spreads mainly through sexual contact. It is not a sign of poor hygiene, and having it does not prove when or from whom an infection was acquired.

Arrange a sexual-health or gynaecology assessment for testing. A clinician may use a vaginal, urethral or urine sample, depending on your symptoms and anatomy. If the result is positive, take the prescribed medicine exactly as directed and tell recent sexual partners so they can be assessed and treated. Avoid sex until your clinician advises that it is sensible to resume, because reinfection can occur when partners are not treated together.

Do not use leftover medicines or assume treatment for another vaginal infection will work. Read more about Vaginal Discharge and Vaginal Itching, and discuss related treatment options such as Antibiotic Treatment for Pelvic Infection with a clinician.

Seek prompt medical care for pelvic or lower-abdominal pain, fever, unusual bleeding, pain during pregnancy, sores, or symptoms that are rapidly worsening. Arrange testing soon after a partner tells you they have trichomoniasis, even if you feel normal. Urgent help is appropriate for severe pain, fainting, heavy bleeding or feeling seriously unwell.

Ask which sample will be used, when you can expect the result, whether partners need treatment, when sex can safely resume, and what to do if symptoms continue after treatment.