Sexual health
Trichomoniasis
Also known as: Trich, TV infection
Trichomoniasis condition guide: symptoms, causes, prevention, and when to seek care. Educational only — not a diagnosis.
Overview
Trichomoniasis is caused by Trichomonas vaginalis and spreads mainly through sex. Women may notice odorous discharge, but some people have no symptoms. Treating all partners matters.
Symptoms
- Odorous vaginal discharge
- Itching or burning in the vagina
- Pain during sex
- Burning when urinating
- Redness of the vulva
- In some men: itching or slight discharge
Causes
It spreads through condomless sex with an infected partner. It is not usually spread by toilet seats or towels alone.
Treatment (general information)
A clinician prescribes antiparasitic medicine. Partners should be treated together and avoid sex until treatment is finished. Do not self-medicate from a shop.
Prevention
Use condoms, get STI testing, and avoid sex if you or a partner have symptoms.
When to see a doctor
Seek care for odorous discharge, severe itching, or after condomless sex with a new partner.
Frequently asked questions
- Can it come back?
- Yes, especially if a partner was not treated. Treating together lowers reinfection.
- Is it the same as thrush?
- No. Yeast and trichomoniasis can both itch, but causes and medicines differ.