Trichomoniasis

Real talk:

Trichomoniasis (sometimes called ‘trich’) is a parasitic infection that can affect the genitals and urethra. Like many STIs, it’s easily curable with a short course of antibiotics.

What is trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is an STI caused by a protozoa (a microscopic bug). It can affect the genitals, the cervix and the urethra (the hole where pee comes out).

Trichomoniasis is curable with antibiotics, but infections in the vagina or cervix can last a long time without people realising it’s there. Infections in the penis are more likely to clear up on their own.

How do you get trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is passed through body fluids during vaginal sex – with or without penetration.

It’s often passed during penis-in vagina sex, but it may also be passed through fingering, grinding, fisting or sharing toys if infected fluids (vaginal fluid, semen or pre-cum) are present. In rare cases, it can be passed during anal or oral sex.

The trichomoniasis parasite can also survive and be passed on by sharing damp towels.

In Australia, trichomoniasis is more common in older people and people who live rurally and remotely.

What are the symptoms of trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis often doesn’t have any symptoms. If symptoms do come up, they appear differently depending on where you have the infection.

Vagina or cervix: Unusual or foul-smelling discharge, irritation, pain during penetration, or pain when peeing.

Penis or urethra: Discharge from the opening of the penis, or irritation when peeing.

How is trichomoniasis prevented?

Depending on the kind of sex you’re having, you can use barriers like condoms or gloves to prevent the transmission of trichomoniasis.

Make sure to grab a new barrier if you’re changing partners, body parts or sharing a toy in one session.

Using gloves before touching someone’s genitals may also reduce the chance of passing the infection if you’ve got genital fluids on your hands.

How do you test for trichomoniasis?

A routine STI screening doesn’t include a test for trichomoniasis. If you have symptoms, ask your health professional for a test. They may also recommend testing for it if you live in an area where rates of infection are higher.

A test for trichomoniasis can be done by urine sample or genital swab.

How do you get treated for trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is curable with oral antibiotics.

Give the antibiotics a full week (seven days) to work before having sex again.

If you’re diagnosed with trichomoniasis, don’t forget to let your sexual partners know so they can also get tested and treated if needed. Check out our partner notification section for more information on navigating this part of the process.

When to see a healthcare professional

A healthcare professional can recommend the tests that are right for your body and your sexual practices. They can provide treatment straight away if you need it, check for any complications, and talk with you about re-testing or letting partners know. Regular checks are a simple way to look after yourself, your partners and your community.

See a healthcare provider if:

• you notice any unusual changes or symptoms listed above
• a partner has told you they have an STI
• you have had sex without a barrier (condoms, dams or gloves)
• you are starting a new sexual relationship
• it has been a while since your last sexual health check

Many STIs don’t cause symptoms, which is why routine testing is one of the best ways to stay on top of your sexual health.