What is Trichomoniasis and What are the Symptoms?

Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. This infection is more common in women than men. It can cause vaginal or penile discharge, genital discomfort, and pain with sex or urination. While Trichomoniasis is generally not serious, it is crucial to get tested and treated because it commonly occurs as a co-infection with other STIs. 

What is Trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. It is caused by and spreads via sexual intercourse and can be passed between a penis and vagina and also via vagina to vagina contact. Trichomoniasis, commonly called “trich,” is caused by a one-celled parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. 

What are the Symptoms?

70% of individuals infected with Trichomoniasis will have no symptoms, but those who do are likely to experience:

Women:

• Green, foul-smelling vaginal discharge
• Genital burning or itching
• Pain or bleeding with sex
• Pain with urination

Men:

• Penile discharge
• Penile irritation
• Pain with urination

Even if there are no symptoms, a person with Trichomoniasis can spread the infection to their sexual partners. In fact, men who are infected are more likely to have no symptoms and spread the infection to their partners through direct genital contact. 

How do I get a Diagnosis?

Trichomoniasis is easily diagnosed by taking a sample of genital secretions or urine and examining it under a microscope. If the parasites are visualized, the infection is diagnosed, and you can begin treatment. If you are diagnosed with Trichomoniasis, your doctor may recommend getting tested for other STIs since co-infection is quite common. 

It is important for people who are sexually active to get STI testing every year. This is because many STIs are completely asymptomatic but can still cause damage. To prevent the long-term effects of STIs, get a yearly preventative STI screen to check for common STIs and HIV if you are at risk. If you are not in an HIV risk group, it is still a good idea to get tested at least once in your lifetime since HIV is now highly treatable if detected early. 

Testing for STIs can be costly, between $108 to $600 if you do not have insurance. If you want to access low-cost STI testing, Mira may be right for you. With low-cost lab testing and access to discounted prescriptions for just $40 per month, Mira can dramatically decrease the burden of testing and treating STIs.