Trichomoniasis (often called “Trich”–pronounced Trick) is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Trich can be cured with medicine and does not cause serious damage to the genitals or reproductive organs.
What causes trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis is usually passed from one person to another during sex.
What are common symptoms of trichomoniasis?
Many men and women who have Trich do not have symptoms and do not know they have the infection. If men have symptoms, they have a discharge or drainage from the penis or pain when urinating. If women have symptoms, they often have vaginal discharge that can sometimes be frothy and yellow. Women can also have vaginal itching, vaginal odor and pain with urination.
How can trichomoniasis be prevented?
- Your care provider will ask you questions about your medical and sexual history and then do an exam of your genitals. Tests may be done on the fluid from your vagina or penis.
- Trich is cured with medicine called Flagyl (metronidazole). Take all of the medicine as written on the bottle, even if your symptoms go away.
- Drinking alcohol (like beer, wine or vodka) while you are taking Flagyl can cause nausea and vomiting. Wait 24 hours after your last drink of alcohol before you start to take the Flagyl. Once you have finished your pills wait at least 24 (it is best to wait 72 hours) before you drink alcohol again.
- Trich is a sexually transmitted disease, your sexual partner(s) or anyone that you have had sex with recently needs to be treated also.
- Tell your sexual partner(s) to go to their doctor or clinic and get treated. It is very important that any person that you have had sex with in the last 2 months take the medicine.
- Do not have sex until you and your partner(s) have taken all of the medicine and your care provider says it is safe.
- Follow the instructions from your care provider if follow up visits are needed.
- To lower your risk of getting and STD or HIV, always use latex condoms when you have sex.