Trichomoniasis
Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Trichomoniasis ("trich") is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. The CDC estimated that more than 2 million people in the United States were infected in 2018. Trichomoniasis is more common in women than in men, and many infected people do not experience symptoms. Without treatment, trich can increase the risk of acquiring or spreading other sexually transmitted diseases.
Symptoms
In men, symptoms may include:
- •Itching or irritation inside the penis
- •Discomfort with urination or sex
- •Discharge from the penis
In women, symptoms may include:
- •Itching, burning, redness or soreness of the genitals
- •Discomfort with urination or sex
- •Clear, white, yellowish or greenish vaginal discharge
Complications
- •Untreated trichomoniasis can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which may damage the reproductive system and lead to infertility
- •Trichomoniasis increases the risk of HIV infection and transmission
Treatment
Trich is typically treated with oral antibiotics such as metronidazole or tinidazole. These medications are highly effective when the full course is completed; sexual partners should also be treated to prevent re‑infection.
Prevention
Practicing safe sex—using condoms or other barrier methods during sexual activity—and getting regular STI screenings helps prevent and detect trichomoniasis early.
Sources
- Written by Love Hurts, Inc. (Medically reviewed by Kecia Gaither, MD on March 31, 2024)
- CDC: “Trichomoniasis-- CDC Fact Sheet.”
- Mayo Clinic: “Chlamydia trachomatis.”
- WebMD: “Trichomoniasis (Trich)”
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