What is it?

Trichomoniasis is an STI caused by a tiny parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis (TV). It can be easily passed on through sex and most people don't know they're infected.

How do I get it?

Trichomoniasis is typically transmitted during unprotected sexual intercourse with someone who has the infection. It’s spread when semen (cum), pre-cum, and vaginal fluids get on or inside your penis, vulva, or vagina.

Trichomoniasis isn’t spread through casual contact, so you can’t get it from sharing food or drinks, kissing, hugging, holding hands, coughing, sneezing, or sitting on toilet seats.

Many people with trichomoniasis don’t have any symptoms, but they can still spread the infection to others

In women, trichomoniasis can cause a frothy yellow or watery vaginal discharge that has an unpleasant smell, soreness or itching around the vagina, and pain when passing urine.

In men, trichomoniasis rarely causes symptoms. However, you may experience pain or burning after passing urine, a whitish discharge, or an inflamed foreskin.

Trichomoniasis can sometimes be difficult to diagnose and your GP may suggest you go to a specialist clinic for a urine or swab test.

Once diagnosed, it can usually be treated with antibiotics. It is important your sexual partner(s) are also treated to avoid reinfection.

  • Use condoms every time you have vaginal or anal sex. 

  • If you have oral sex, use a condom to cover the penis, or a dam (latex or plastic square) to cover the vulva or anus.

  • Avoid sharing sex toys, if you do share them wash them or cover them with a new condom before anyone else uses them.