Can trichomoniasis go away without treatment?

While some mild infections may eventually resolve, trichomoniasis typically persists without treatment and can increase the risk of other STIs including HIV. Treatment with antibiotics is recommended.

Can men get trichomoniasis?

Yes, men can be infected with trichomoniasis, but they are often asymptomatic carriers. Treating male partners is essential to prevent reinfection of the female partner.

Can you get trichomoniasis from a toilet seat?

Trichomoniasis is almost exclusively transmitted through sexual contact. The parasite cannot survive long on surfaces, making transmission from toilet seats extremely unlikely.

InfectiousICD-10: A59.0About 3.7 million Americans are infected at any given time

Trichomoniasis

Also known as: Trich

Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. It primarily affects the urogenital tract and is more symptomatic in women than men. Trichomoniasis is easily curable with antibiotic treatment, but reinfection is common if sexual partners are not treated simultaneously.

Symptoms

Foul-smelling, frothy, greenish-yellow vaginal discharge in women

Vaginal itching, burning, or redness

Pain during urination or sexual intercourse

Lower abdominal discomfort

Most men are asymptomatic

Mild discharge, burning after urination, or irritation inside the penis in men

Causes

Infection with the protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis
Transmission through vaginal sexual intercourse
Rarely transmitted through shared wet towels or bathing suits

Risk Factors

Multiple sexual partners
History of other STIs
Unprotected sexual intercourse
Female sex, with higher rates in older women

Diagnosis

Wet mount microscopy of vaginal secretions
Nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) as the most sensitive method
Rapid antigen test
Culture of vaginal or urethral specimens

Treatment

Oral metronidazole or tinidazole as single-dose therapy
Treatment of all sexual partners simultaneously
Abstaining from sexual intercourse until treatment is complete and symptoms resolve
Retesting three months after treatment due to high reinfection rates

Prevention

Consistent condom use during sexual intercourse
Limiting the number of sexual partners
Partner notification and treatment
Regular STI screening for sexually active individuals

When to See a Doctor

Unusual vaginal discharge with odor or color change
Pain or burning during urination or intercourse
Genital irritation or itching
If a sexual partner is diagnosed with trichomoniasis

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Sexually Transmitted Infections

Infectious

Vaginitis

Reproductive

Chlamydia

Infectious

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