Trichomoniasis

How do you get infected?

Trichomoniasis can only be transmitted from the penis to the vagina and vice versa. You cannot get it from anal or oral sex.

The infection is easy to treat. More symptoms are seen in girls and women than in boys and men. But you could have trichomoniasis for a long time without having any symptoms.

Symptoms in women

Women have symptoms more often but may not notice the STI at all. The symptoms can get worse during your period.

Symptoms in women are:

  • Milky discharge that sometimes has an unpleasant smell.
  • Red, swollen and painful labia and vagina.
  • Pain when urinating.

Symptoms in men

Most men don’t have symptoms. If they do, it might be:

  • Some discharge from the urethra early in the morning.
  • Irritation or itching at the head and tip of the penis.
  • Burning sensation when urinating.

Treatment

Trichomoniasis is treated with a single dose of antibiotics. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Don’t drink any alcohol on the day of the treatment.