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Trichomoniasis
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Sexual Health Issues

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a parasitic STI that often presents without symptoms, but requires medical treatment for both partners to prevent complications and further spread.

Overview

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a parasite. It spreads from person to person during sex. Many people do not have any symptoms. If you do get symptoms, they usually happen within 5 to 28 days after being infected.

Symptoms

It can cause vaginitis in women. Symptoms include:

  • Yellow-green or gray discharge from the vagina
  • Discomfort during sex
  • Vaginal odor
  • Painful urination
  • Itching, burning, and soreness of the vagina and vulva

Most men do not have symptoms. If they do, they may have:

  • Itching or irritation inside the penis
  • Burning after urination or ejaculation
  • Discharge from the penis

Complications & Treatment

Trichomoniasis can increase the risk of getting or spreading other sexually transmitted infections. Pregnant women with trichomoniasis are more likely to give birth too early, and their babies are more likely to have a low birth weight.

Lab tests can tell if you have the infection. Treatment is with antibiotics. If you are infected, you and your partner must be treated.

Correct usage of latex condoms greatly reduces, but does not eliminate, the risk of catching or spreading trichomoniasis. If you or your partner is allergic to latex, you can use polyurethane condoms. The most reliable way to avoid infection is to not have anal, vaginal, or oral sex.

Frequently Asked Questions

If left untreated, trichomoniasis can increase your risk of contracting or transmitting other sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. In women, it can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and ectopic pregnancy. For pregnant women, untreated trichomoniasis increases the risk of premature birth and low birth weight in babies. While less common, in men, untreated infection may contribute to issues like prostatitis or epididymitis.
To prevent reinfection, it's crucial that all your sexual partners are also tested and treated, even if they don't have symptoms. You should avoid sexual activity until both you and your partner(s) have completed treatment and your symptoms have resolved. Consistent and correct use of latex or polyurethane condoms during every sexual encounter can significantly reduce the risk of future infection, though it does not eliminate it entirely.
Trichomoniasis is primarily a sexually transmitted infection, meaning it is almost always spread through sexual contact. While the parasite can survive for a short time on moist surfaces, transmission through non-sexual means like toilet seats, hot tubs, or shared towels is extremely rare and not considered a significant route of infection.
You should wait to have sex until both you and your partner(s) have finished the full course of antibiotics and all symptoms have completely cleared. This typically means waiting about 7 days after the last dose of medication for both partners. Your healthcare provider can give you specific guidance based on your treatment plan.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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