Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a parasitic infection of the vagina and urethra causing discharge and discomfort. It is treated with antimicrobials

Last updated: 19 June 2008

What is Trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis, commonly called trich, is caused by a parasite which infects the vagina in women and the urethra in both men and women. Trichomoniasis can live in the body for many years unnoticed if it isn't diagnosed and treated.

What are the symptoms?

Not all women notice symptoms but some women may notice:
• a frothy yellow-green vaginal discharge
• an unpleasant vaginal odour
• vaginal itching or burning sensation

Most men have no noticeable symptoms but some men notice a discharge from the penis and burning sensation when urinating.

Trichomoniasis infection can be associated with premature births and also increases the risk of HIV infection.

How is it spread?

Trichomoniasis is transmitted by through vaginal sex. Transmission from woman to woman is also possible -transferred by hands or sex toys to the genitals.

Who is at risk?

Trichomoniasis is not common in Australia and mostly affects women. Women who have sex with partners from high prevalence countries are at higher risk. Rates of trichomoniasis are increasing in some Aboriginal communities.

How is it prevented?

Using condoms for vaginal sex significantly reduces the risk of trichomoniasis and other sexually transmitted infections.
Avoid sharing sex toys and consider using condoms with sex toys for further protection.
Have regular sexual health checks to identify infections early to prevent passing the infection on to others and before complications develop.

How is it diagnosed?

A doctor or nurse will need to examine you and, for women, take a swab of the infected area. The swab is examined under a microscope to see if the trichomoniasis parasite is present. Men are usually only tested if there partner tests positive.

How is it treated?

Trichomoniasis can be effectively treated with antimicrobial tablets. Your sexual partner(s) will need treatment at the same time, whether they have symptoms or not, so they don't give it back to you or pass it on to someone else.

What is the public health response?

If you have been diagnosed with trichomoniasis it is important to tell your sex partner(s), so they can also be tested and treated and so they do not infect other people. Your doctor or sexual health clinic can help you decide who may be at risk and help you to contact them. If you wish, this can be done anonymously by your doctor.

Avoid sex until both you and your partner(s) have treated.

Further Information

Sexual Health Information Line (02) 9382 7440 or Freecall 1800 451 624 (outside Sydney).

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