Download a factsheet on trichomoniasis (PDF 59 KB)
What causes trichomoniasis? A
parasite called trichomonas vaginalis.
How is trichomoniasis spread? By unprotected vaginal sex.
What are the symptoms of trichomoniasis?
| Females: |
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Males: |
- a light yellow-green vaginal discharge, which may cause irritation
- symptoms can appear 4 to 20 days after infection
- some females do not have any symptoms.
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- most men do not have any symptoms
- slight discharge from the urethra
- burning or pain when passing urine or during sex
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How do you get tested for trichomoniasis? Swabs.
What is the treatment for trichomoniasis? Antibiotics.
Avoid vaginal sex until treatment is completed and all sexual partners are tested and treated.
Tell your doctor if you could be pregnant as the usual treatment could be harmful.
How can you minimise the risk of contracting trichomoniasis?
- always use a condom
- avoid sex with casual partners and/or decrease your number of sexual partners.
Have a check-up for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) if you have had:
- unsafe sex
- a new partner
- symptoms.
Visit the "Where can I go for help?" webpage to find out where you can get an STI check-up
