Trichomoniasis is an infection caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. It's passed on through unprotected vaginal sex with an infected person.
Signs and symptoms:
Trichomoniasis only usually occurs in females.
Some females don't have any symptoms of infection. Others may notice:
- Red, sore or itchy vulva (genital area).
- Vaginal discharge which is thin and foamy and may have an unpleasant 'fishy' odour.
- Burning or pain when passing urine or during sex.
Symptoms in males are rare. Occasionally, males may notice:
- Slight discharge from the penis.
- Burning or pain when passing urine or during sex.
Risky when:
You have unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex, that is, without a condom.
Treatment:
Trichomoniasis is treated with antibiotics.
Prevention:
- Always use condoms or dams and water-based lubricant.
- Before you have sex, talk with your partner about the importance of safer sex.
- Be open with your partner and make sure you or they don't have any other sex partners.
- Limit your sex partners.
- Have regular STI tests.
Other STIs and BBVs
