Trichomoniasis Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Guide

When you hear the word Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a single‑celled parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. It spreads through vaginal or anal sex and can affect anyone who is sexually active, though women typically notice symptoms earlier than men. Understanding the signs, why it happens, and how to clear it up can spare you weeks of discomfort and protect your partner.

What exactly is Trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis belongs to the group of protozoan STIs. The parasite lives in the warm, moist environment of the genital tract, where it attaches to the lining and releases enzymes that cause inflammation. In most cases the body’s immune response produces the characteristic discharge and itching, but up to 70% of infected people show no symptoms at all.

Typical symptoms - what to look for

Symptoms differ by gender, and they can vary from mild irritation to a full‑blown infection.

• Women: frothy, yellow‑green discharge; a strong fishy odor; burning during urination; vaginal itching or soreness; discomfort during intercourse.
• Men: itching or irritation inside the penis; a thin discharge; burning or pain when urinating; sometimes mild discomfort in the urethra.

Because many cases are silent, routine testing is the safest way to know your status.

How does Trichomoniasis spread?

The parasite moves from one partner to another through direct genital contact. Unprotected vaginal or anal sex is the primary route, but sharing sex toys without proper cleaning can also transmit the infection. A single exposure can be enough - even a short encounter with an infected partner puts you at risk.

Diagnosing the infection

Doctors rely on two main methods:

1. Microscopic examination of a swab sample, where the parasite’s characteristic shape can be seen under a microscope.
2. Rapid antigen tests that detect Trichomonas proteins in minutes. These are increasingly common in clinics because they’re accurate and don’t require a lab.

If you have symptoms, ask your healthcare provider for a test. Even if symptoms have faded, a test is wise after a recent partner change.

Effective treatment options

Both metronidazole and tinidazole work by killing the parasite. They are taken as a single dose or a short 5‑day course, and cure rates exceed 95% when the full regimen is followed.

Because the infection can hide in the partner’s urethra, it’s essential that both you and any recent sexual partners complete the full course at the same time. A repeat test after two weeks helps confirm that the parasite is gone.

Preventing re‑infection

Here are practical steps to keep Trichomoniasis from coming back:

• Use condoms consistently. Latex barriers stop the parasite from reaching the genital lining.
• Get tested together with any new or recent partner before resuming intimacy.
• Avoid sharing sex toys unless you clean them with hot water and soap or use a fresh condom on each use.
• Limit the number of concurrent sexual partners; fewer partners mean fewer chances for exposure.

Even after treatment, the parasite can linger in the partner’s body for a short time, so a retest for both parties is a smart move.

When to seek medical help

If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, especially a strange discharge or burning during urination, book an appointment with your GP or a sexual health clinic. Pregnant women should be extra careful - untreated trichomoniasis has been linked to pre‑term labor.

Quick reference checklist

• Know the symptoms - discharge, itching, burning.
• Get tested if you have symptoms or a new partner.
• Take the full prescribed dose of metronidazole or tinidazole.
• Ensure your partner completes treatment at the same time.
• Use condoms and clean sex toys to prevent re‑infection.