Trichomoniasis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. It affects both men and women, but many people may not realise they are infected due to the lack of noticeable symptoms. Despite being highly treatable, trichomoniasis is frequently underdiagnosed because it often goes undetected until symptoms become bothersome or a partner tests positive.
The infection is most commonly spread through unprotected vaginal sex and can cause irritation, discomfort, and discharge. If left untreated, it may increase the risk of contracting or transmitting other STIs, including HIV. Thankfully, with early diagnosis and appropriate trichomoniasis treatment, it can be resolved quickly and completely.
What is Trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis is one of the most common non-viral STIs worldwide. The parasite responsible is passed from person to person through genital contact, typically during vaginal sex. It does not usually spread through oral or anal sex, nor can it be caught from toilet seats or swimming pools.
In many cases, individuals with trichomoniasis may not experience any symptoms and unknowingly pass it on to sexual partners. This is particularly common in men, who are more likely to carry the infection without realising it. Although the infection itself is curable, untreated trichomoniasis can lead to inflammation of the genital tract and may increase the risk of complications, especially in pregnancy.
People of all ages can be affected, but young women and those with multiple sexual partners are at higher risk. It is also more prevalent in areas with limited access to sexual health education and testing.
Key facts about trichomoniasis:
Affects around 1 in 10 sexually active women under age 25 in the UK
Commonly asymptomatic in men—they may unknowingly spread the infection
It does not spread through oral or anal sex, or from toilet seats or hot tubs
Can increase risk of HIV transmission and cause pregnancy complications
💡 Did you know? Up to 70% of people with trichomoniasis show no symptoms but can still infect others.
Professional GP advice, anytime, anywhere
Trichomoniasis Symptoms
Trichomoniasis doesn’t always make a grand entrance. For many people, especially men, the infection quietly lingers without causing any noticeable symptoms. When it does show up, it can take a few days or even a couple of weeks after exposure for signs to appear. Women tend to be more likely to experience symptoms, and when they do, they’re often hard to ignore. A tell-tale sign is a change in vaginal discharge — it might become frothy, have a greenish-yellow tint, and carry an unpleasant or strong odour. Alongside this, some women may notice irritation or itching around the genital area, and discomfort when passing urine or during sex. Occasionally, there may be light spotting after intercourse, which can easily be mistaken for something else entirely.
Men, on the other hand, often go under the radar. If symptoms do appear, they might be limited to a mild discharge from the penis, a stinging sensation when urinating or ejaculating, or a slight itch inside the urethra. These symptoms can mimic other infections like chlamydia or a urinary tract infection, making it difficult to know what’s really going on without testing. That’s why many cases go undiagnosed — and untreated — for longer than they should. If you notice anything unusual, no matter how subtle, getting tested is the only way to know for sure.
Trichomoniasis Treatment
The good news is that trichomoniasis is one of the simpler STIs to treat. In most cases, a single dose of antibiotics — usually metronidazole or tinidazole — is enough to clear the infection completely. It’s a straightforward fix, but there are a couple of important things to bear in mind. First, steer clear of alcohol for at least 24 hours after taking metronidazole (or 72 hours if you’re prescribed tinidazole). Mixing alcohol with these antibiotics can leave you feeling extremely unwell, with symptoms like nausea and dizziness.
Just as crucial is treating both you and your partner at the same time, even if they don’t have any symptoms. Otherwise, you risk passing the infection back and forth. It's also wise to avoid sex altogether during treatment and for about a week afterwards, just to be on the safe side. For those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, treatment is still possible and strongly recommended, as untreated trichomoniasis can lead to complications later in pregnancy. Your GP will advise on the safest option for your situation.
How to Prevent Trichomoniasis
Like many STIs, trichomoniasis is preventable with a few simple but consistent habits. Using condoms correctly during vaginal sex offers strong protection against transmission. If you’re starting a new relationship or have multiple partners, routine STI checks should be part of your normal health care — and it’s worth noting that trichomoniasis isn’t always included in standard screening, so you may need to request it specifically.
Another factor often overlooked is douching, which can disrupt the vagina’s natural balance and make infections more likely. Keeping things simple and avoiding unnecessary products helps maintain a healthy environment. And of course, having an open conversation with your partner about sexual health, and agreeing on mutual monogamy or regular testing, goes a long way toward prevention. These habits aren’t just protective — they’re empowering.
When to See a GP
If something doesn’t feel quite right — whether it’s discharge, itching, or pain during sex or urination — it’s time to get checked. Even if you feel completely fine, but know a recent partner has tested positive for trichomoniasis or another STI, don’t wait. Testing is quick and painless. For women, it usually involves a vaginal swab, which can often be self-collected. For men, a simple urine sample is usually all that’s needed. Results generally come back in a few days, and if treatment is needed, you can start almost immediately.
For pregnant women, the stakes are a little higher. Left untreated, trichomoniasis can increase the risk of early labour and low birth weight. But with timely treatment, those risks are significantly reduced. At Medway GP, we offer a confidential and convenient service, so you can speak to a trusted UK GP and receive any necessary treatment — all from the comfort and privacy of your home.
Trichomoniasis and Pregnancy
Trichomoniasis during pregnancy can be concerning, but the silver lining is that it's entirely treatable — and the sooner, the better. If the infection is left to linger, it could raise the risk of complications such as premature rupture of the membranes, early delivery, and low birth weight. It may also contribute to infections after the baby is born. Thankfully, the same antibiotics used in general treatment can usually be prescribed safely in pregnancy.
It’s important that both partners are treated, even during pregnancy, to avoid the infection being passed back and forth. Routine antenatal checks often include STI testing, but if you’re unsure whether you’ve been screened for trichomoniasis, it’s always okay to ask your midwife or GP. Staying on top of sexual health during pregnancy is part of giving your baby the healthiest start possible.
Final Thoughts
Trichomoniasis might not grab headlines like some other STIs, but it’s more common than many realise — and because it often hides in plain sight, it can quietly spread between partners without anyone knowing. The good news is, it’s completely curable. Recognising the early signs, getting tested regularly, and ensuring both you and your partners are properly treated are the key steps to keeping yourself and others safe.
