Trichomoniasis is more common in older women, and those from regional and remote areas, but still possible in urban settings.

It’s not a common cause of male urethritis.

Symptoms in men are rare, but are similar to chlamydia  if present.

In women symptoms can include;

• A malodorous vaginal discharge – typically profuse and frothy
• Vulval itch/soreness
• Cervicitis

Left untreated it can cause more significant complications including;

Men

• Prostatitis

Women (For pregnant women)

• premature rupture of membranes
• Preterm delivery
• Low birth weight
• Postpartum sepsis

How is it diagnosed?

By testing specifically for traces of the protozoa in someone with symptoms. We can test this using a urine sample in men.

For women the better test is an endocervical swab which is swabbing the surface of the cervix.

What do I do if I have trichomoniasis?

Your doctor will inform you of the results with a phone call if a follow up appointment hasn’t already been arranged.

You will be provided with antibiotics/antiprotozoals to treat the infection, and advised not to have sex with anyone for the next 7 days, even if you are using barrier protection like condoms. Ensure your current sexual partner is also treated.

What next?

If you had symptoms, they should have resolved. If they didn’t then it’s advised to see your doctor to check if there was treatment failure, reinfection, or if there is another cause.

If you’re interested in doing an STI screen, or are worried you might have symptoms book in with our doctors for an STI check. If you want to know how often you should get tested, have a look at our page on how often should I have a sexual health check for more information.