Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite which can be passed on during unprotected sex.
Half of everyone with the STI will not develop any symptoms but may still be able to pass it on.
Here we will discuss the signs and symptoms of trichomoniasis and how you can get treated.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite which can be passed on during unprotected sex.
Half of everyone with the STI will not develop any symptoms but may still be able to pass it on.
Here we will discuss the signs and symptoms of trichomoniasis and how you can get treated.
Signs and Symptoms
Some people may not show any signs of infection, with 10% of born male and 50% of born females showing no symptoms.
If you do show symptoms, they may include:
- A thick green or yellow discharge from the vagina or penis
- Pain when peeing
- In women, bleeding between periods
How is it Transmitted?
Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite called trichomonas vaginalis and can be spread through unprotected sex.
However, it can’t be spread through oral or anal sex.
How to Get Tested
The free, easy and discreet way to discover if you have an STI.
Call our Helpline
Speak to a friendly advisor and get the advice and support you need.
You’re not alone.
There are people who care about you and want to help you through this.
Prevention
The best ways you can prevent trichomoniasis is to have safe sex and:
- Use a condom every time you have vaginal or anal sex
- Avoid sharing sex toys without washing in-between uses
Treatment
Trichomoniasis can usually be easily treated with antibiotics. So, if you think you may have it, go to see a doctor so you can get the right treatment for you.
Most people are prescribed an antibiotic to take twice a day for 5 to 7 days. It’s important to take all of your antibiotics, even if you start to feel better after a few days. If you don’t finish your antibiotics, the infection could come back.
After you finish your antibiotics, you’ll need to get tested again to make sure the infection is gone. You should also tell any sexual partners you’ve had recently so they can get tested and treated too.
FAQs
Trichomoniasis
Clear answers to common questions
Contacting a sexual health service for the first time may be a little daunting, especially if you’re not keen on talking to someone. So, here are answers to some of the questions we get asked a lot.
Can I catch trichomoniasis again?
Yes, even if you’ve had it before you won’t be immune from catching it again. The best way to prevent this is to wear a condom each time you have sex.
How is trichomoniasis diagnosed?
You will be invited to a confidential physical examination at one of our clinics, where a doctor will undertake an examination, which may involve taking a swab from the infected area.
This will then be tested in a lab and you will get your results within a few days.
You’ll be asked in advance if you are comfortable with the examination.
