What should you know about ways to catch trich?

Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite and spreads mainly during sexual contact involving the penis, vagina, or vulva. Transmission can occur when one partner has no noticeable symptoms. It is not a condition you can diagnose from appearance alone.

Possible symptoms include changed vaginal discharge, vaginal itching, irritation, discomfort during sex, or burning when passing urine. Some people have no symptoms. These signs overlap with other vaginal conditions, so discharge or itching does not confirm trich. Testing uses a sample collected by a healthcare professional or with an approved test method.

A positive result means sexual partners may need assessment and treatment. Reinfection can happen if partners are not treated or sex resumes before treatment guidance is complete.

Arrange sexual-health or gynaecology care for testing if a partner has trich, symptoms develop, or you are concerned about exposure. Avoid sex until a clinician explains when it is safe to resume. Tell current or recent partners so they can seek care; this protects both people from passing the infection back and forth. Trich is treated with prescribed medicine, and antibiotic treatment for pelvic infection may be considered when another infection or pelvic symptoms are present.

Seek prompt medical help for pelvic pain, fever, pain during sex, pregnancy with symptoms, or worsening genital irritation. Urgent care is appropriate for severe pain, faintness, or heavy bleeding. Do not use leftover medication because the right treatment depends on testing and your clinical situation.

Ask: What test do I need? Should my partner or partners be tested? When can we resume sex? Do I need testing for other sexually transmitted infections? What should I do if symptoms remain after treatment?