Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease. It occurs in teens and adults and affects men as well as women.

Trichomonas (how it looks under a microscope)

Trichomonas

What causes trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is caused by a single-cell parasite called a trichomonad. The parasite is spread through sexual intercourse, so it is a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

Trichomoniasis lives and multiplies in both men and women, but it hardly ever causes symptoms in men. Women can have vaginal discharge or no symptoms at all. Even though you might not know that you have trichomoniasis, you could be infecting and re-infecting your partner.

The parasite can also be passed on by wet towels, washcloths, and bathing suits, but this is very rare. It is NOT spread by toilet seats.

What are some signs/symptoms of trichomoniasis?

Some symptoms in guys include:

Burning after urination
Burning after ejaculation
Itching/irritation inside the penis (urethra)

Because guys don’t usually show signs of trichomoniasis, it’s important for your partner to let you know if she is experiencing symptoms such as vaginal discharge, itching and burning, or has just been diagnosed with a trichomonas infection.

Contact your health care provider if you think you need to be tested.

How can a health care provider definitely tell if I have trichomoniasis?

Most men are treated because their partner has the infection. Trichomoniasis can be diagnosed by checking a urine sample for the parasite, or other special trichomonas DNA tests.

How is trichomoniasis treated?

If you are diagnosed with trichomoniasis, your health care provider will prescribe a specific antibiotic (usually metronidazole) for you and your partner. It is important that both of you are treated since trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease. Be sure to let your health care provider know about any other medications that you are taking.

You and your partner must take the whole dose of the medication for it to be the most effective. Do not drink alcohol while you are taking the medication, or you will vomit. If you take the entire dose, trichomoniasis will usually be cured.

Remember that you can re-infect your partner until you have been treated! It is important that you and your partner avoid having sex until both of you are completely cured.

How can trichomoniasis be prevented?

If you have more than one sexual partner, your chance of getting trichomoniasis is much higher. So, a monogamous sexual relationship (sex with one person only) lowers your risk of getting trichomoniasis.
Condoms decrease the risk of STDs (when used properly).

Additional Information:

Trichomoniasis: CDC Fact Sheet

Written by the CYWH and YMH Staff at Children's Hospital Boston

Updated: 11/20/2009

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