Trichomoniasis: What You Need to Know

Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by a tiny parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. It spreads through vaginal sex, and many people never notice it because the symptoms can be mild or even absent. If you think you might have it, the good news is a doctor can test you quickly and treatment is usually a short course of medication.

The parasite lives in the warm, moist areas of the genitals. In women, it often shows up as itching, burning, or a frothy, yellow‑green discharge. Men might feel mild irritation inside the penis or notice a burning sensation when they pee. Because the infection can be silent, regular testing is the best way to catch it early, especially if you have new or multiple partners.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Typical signs in women include:

• Itching or irritation around the vagina
• Burning during urination
• Unusual discharge that may be frothy and smell bad

Men might experience:

• Discomfort inside the penis
• Burning when you pee
• Occasional discharge

Because these symptoms overlap with other infections, a lab test is the only reliable way to confirm trichomoniasis. A simple swab from the affected area or a urine sample is enough. Many clinics use rapid tests that give results in minutes, so you don’t have to wait long to get treated.

Treatment and Prevention

The standard treatment is a single dose of the antibiotic metronidazole or tinidazole. Both work well and clear the infection in most cases. It’s important that you and any recent sexual partners take the medication at the same time – otherwise you could pass the infection back and forth.

To keep trichomoniasis from coming back, use condoms consistently, limit the number of sexual partners, and get tested regularly if you’re at risk. Even if you feel fine, a test after treatment confirms the infection is gone. Sharing personal items like towels or underwear doesn’t spread trichomoniasis, but good hygiene never hurts.

Bottom line: trichomoniasis is easy to treat but easy to miss, so don’t ignore odd itching or discharge. A quick visit to your doctor, a simple test, and a short antibiotic course can get you back to feeling normal fast. Stay safe, stay tested, and keep the conversation open with your partner about sexual health.