Trichomoniasis

It is caused by the single-celled parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. It is not a bacterium and cannot be treated with just any antibiotic.

Mainly through genital sexual contact, including transfer of infected vaginal fluid between partners.

Ordinary social contact and shared utensils are not typical transmission routes.

It can persist for a long time without diagnosis. It is relevant when there is vaginal discharge or a partner with diagnosed infection.

In symptomatic infection, symptoms often begin after approximately 5–28 days, but can appear later.

There is no universal interval for all methods. Symptoms or known exposure warrant assessment now; an early negative result must be interpreted in context.

Unusual vaginal discharge, odour, itching, irritation or burning when urinating. Urethral infection may cause mild discharge.

Yes, many people have no symptoms or only mild ones.

Mainly the vagina and urethra. Routine throat and rectal samples for trichomonas are generally not recommended.

Molecular tests are more sensitive than ordinary microscopy. Negative microscopy does not rule out infection.

A vaginal swab or urine, depending on the validated test. The laboratory confirms the appropriate sample and preparation.

A treatment plan and partner assessment are needed. The result cannot establish with certainty when infection was acquired.

With prescribed nitroimidazole medicines. Recurrence requires assessment for reinfection or resistance.

Yes. Reinfection is common when a partner remains untreated; CDC recommends retesting sexually active women at around three months.

Current partners are treated according to the clinical plan. Avoid sex until everyone has completed treatment and symptoms have resolved.

Condoms, cleaning/covering sex toys and coordinated partner care.

For persistent discharge, pelvic pain or symptoms during pregnancy. Symptoms have other possible causes that require examination.

Seek a consultation and confirm the availability of the specific test. If symptoms persist after treatment, do not repeat the medicine on your own.