Trichomoniasis (Trich)

Trichomoniasis (or “trich”) is caused by infection with trichomonas vaginalis, a protozoan parasite. 

In women, the infection most commonly affects the lower genital tract (vulva, vagina, cervix, or urethra); in men, it commonly affects the inside of the penis (urethra). 

Like many sexually transmitted infections, trich often has no symptoms.

How It’s Transmitted

People with trich can pass the infection to others, even if they don’t have symptoms.

You can get trich by having sex without a condom with a partner who has trich. (Need condoms? Find free condoms.)

Symptoms

Though most people with trich don’t have any signs or symptoms, men often report itching or irritation inside the penis, burning after peeing or ejaculating, and discharge from the penis. 

Women report genital itching, burning, redness or soreness, as well as discomfort when peeing, or a clear, white, yellowish, or greenish vaginal discharge with a fishy smell.

Treatment

Trich is curable with medication (pills) from your healthcare provider.

For more information about trich, visit the CDC website.