When to worry about vaginal odour with trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite. It can cause a strong-smelling discharge that may be yellowish or greenish, genital itching, soreness, burning when urinating, or discomfort during sex. Some people have few or no symptoms. These features overlap with bacterial vaginosis and other infections, so smell and appearance cannot identify the cause. Testing usually involves a clinician taking a sample, with treatment selected for you and sexual partners when appropriate.

Book a sexual-health or primary-care appointment if you notice a new odour or discharge, especially after sex with a new or untreated partner. Avoid sex until you have been assessed; if you do have sex, use condoms and follow clinical advice. Do not douche or put scented products inside the vagina. Take all prescribed medicine and ask how partner treatment and repeat testing apply to you.

Seek prompt care for pelvic or lower-abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, pain during sex, bleeding between periods or after sex, sores, or significant pain when urinating. If you are pregnant, contact your maternity or medical team about new odour, discharge, pain, or bleeding. Urgent assessment is appropriate for severe pain, fainting, confusion, or rapidly worsening symptoms.

Ask whether you need testing for trichomoniasis and other sexually transmitted infections, whether partners need treatment, when sex is safe again, and what symptoms should trigger a return visit. Tell the clinician about pregnancy, allergies, medicines, and previous infections.