What is trichomonas vaginalis?
Trichomonas (Sometimes called TV or Trich) is a common, treatable infection caused by a parasite. Symptoms vary and may be mild or absent. Some people develop a yellow-green watery vaginal discharge and feel itchy or sore.
What to do next
Get treatment:
- Contact your local sexual health clinic to get free treatment: Find a sexual health clinic - NHS
- You can purchase treatment from a private pharmacy (we are unable to recommend any providers). Generally, we recommend:
1) Metronidazole 400–500 mg twice daily for 7 days
2) Do NOT drink alcohol while taking this treatment.
3) If you have symptoms, check “When to seek further help” before ordering treatment. - Avoid sex until treatment is completed.
- Retesting is only recommended if your symptoms continue after treatment. If you have not had any symptoms you may wish to retest 4 weeks after your treatment.
- Sexual partners should also be treated to prevent reinfection. TV is not routinely included on most STI tests; therefore, it is important that your sexual partner specifically asks for TV testing and/ or treatment.
When to seek further help:
If you have any of the following symptoms, then we recommend contacting your local sexual health clinic as you may need an examination or different treatment:
Born female at birth:
- pain in your abdomen (tummy) or pelvis,
- deep pain in your pelvis/ tummy when having sex,
- abnormal bleeding (when not on your period)
Born male at birth:
- Pain in your testes (balls)
- Pain or bleeding when you ejaculate (cum)
If you have any of these symptoms please visit your local sexual health clinic [Find a sexual health clinic - NHS]
Why is treatment important?
Treatment clears the infection and helps prevent irritation and further transmission. If left untreated Trichomonas can cause inflammation and scarring which can go on to cause issues with fertility.
For further information please see:
Trichomoniasis - NHS
For further support, please contact our clinical team: [email protected]
Quick links on what to do if you test positive for: