Sexual Health Infections

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Trichomonas Vaginalis

What is Trichomonas Vaginalis and how is it passed on? Find out about signs and symptoms of Trichomonas Vaginalis, testing and treatment and what happens if Trichomonas Vaginalis isn't treated. How to avoid STIs.

The symptoms of Trichomonas vaginalis are often difficult to spot - especially among men. Here's what you should be looking for, where to go for testing and what treatments for Trichomonas Vaginalis are available.

What is Trichomonas vaginalis and how is it passed on?
Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) is caused by a tiny parasite found in the vagina and urethra (the tube where urine comes out).

It is passed on through:

• vaginal sex
• from a mother to her baby at birth
• sharing sex toys

You can't catch trichomonas vaginalis from kissing, hugging, sharing cups, plates or cutlery, or from toilet seats or swimming pools.

Signs and symptoms of Trichomonas vaginalis
Up to 50% of infected people show no symptoms, but symptoms can appear between three and 21 days after infection.

Trichomonas vaginalis symptoms in women:

• increased discharge from the vagina, which may be thinner or frothy, change in color and have a musty or fishy smell
• itching, soreness and inflammation in and around the vagina
• pain when passing urine or having sex
• tenderness in the lower abdomen

Trichomonas vaginalis symptoms in men:

• thin, whitish discharge from the tip of the penis, which can stain underwear
• pain or burning when passing urine

Men especially tend to act as carriers and not show symptoms.

Testing and treatment of Trichomonas vaginalis
Tests for Trichomonas vaginalis shouldn't be painful, but they may be uncomfortable. They may include:

• genital examination by a doctor or nurse
• taking a swab from the vagina or urethra and examining it under a microscope
• women may have an internal examination
• urine tests

TV is sometimes discovered during a routine cervical smear test.

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Treatment is simple and involves a single dose or course of antibiotics. Once successfully treated, TV doesn't come back unless a new infection is acquired. To avoid re-infection, any sexual partners must also be treated.

Unprotected vaginal sex should be avoided until treatment is completed and the infection has cleared up. A check-up is advised after treatment to make sure the infection has gone.

What happens if Trichomonas vaginalis isn't treated?
Trichomonas vaginalis doesn't cause any serious long-term health problems.

How to avoid STIs

1. Before you have sex, talk to your partner about how to protect yourselves.
2. A male or female condom can provide protection from most STIs if used correctly every time you have sex.
3. Become familiar with how to use condoms and have a supply ready.
4. Seek advice straight away if you think you've been at risk.

Last updated: 1005

Related Information:

• Sexually Transmitted Infections Index
• Emergency Contraception
• Why Practice Safer Sex?

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