Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite, and the CDC calls it the most common curable STI. About 70% of people who have it have no signs or symptoms at all.
Get tested for trichomoniasis
Why test for trichomoniasis?
When can I test?
Trichomoniasis does not show up immediately after exposure.
What Is Trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis, often called trich, is a very common sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite, Trichomonas vaginalis. The CDC estimates there were more than two million infections in the United States in 2018, and calls it the most common curable STI. About 70% of people who have it have no signs or symptoms at all, and it is more common in women than in men.
How is trichomoniasis spread?
Sexually active people can get trich by having sex without a condom with a partner who has it. In women the infection is most often found in the lower genital tract, and in men inside the penis. It is not common for the parasite to infect other body parts such as the hands, mouth or anus. People with trich can pass it on even when they have no symptoms.
How is trichomoniasis treated?
Trichomoniasis is cured with prescription medication taken by mouth. Which medicine is used matters in pregnancy — metronidazole and tinidazole are not interchangeable there — so treatment in pregnancy should be decided by a provider. Do not drink alcohol while taking either medicine, or for at least three days after the last dose. Partners should be treated at the same time, and you should not have sex again until everyone has completed treatment. Reinfection occurs in about 1 in 5 people within three months, which is why the CDC advises retesting about three months later even if partners were treated.
Trichomoniasis, answered
Other infections
Trichomoniasis often occurs alongside other STIs. Many panels screen for several at once.
Trichomoniasis FAQs
Is Trichomonas a bad STD?
Trichomonas is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause itching, discharge, and discomfort, but it’s usually easily treated with antibiotics.
How to get rid of trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis is treated effectively with a prescribed course of antibiotics, usually metronidazole or tinidazole. It’s important to take the full medication and avoid sexual activity until both partners have been treated to prevent reinfection.
How long can a man carry trichomoniasis?
A man can carry trichomoniasis for weeks to months if left untreated, often without showing symptoms.
Is trich worse than chlamydia?
Both trichomoniasis (trich) and chlamydia are common sexually transmitted infections that can be easily treated with antibiotics. While chlamydia can lead to more serious complications if left untreated, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, trich often causes unpleasant symptoms like itching and discharge but is less likely to cause long-term damage.
