Trichomoniasis

What is it?

Trichomoniasis (AKA “trich” pronounced “trick”, is a common STI. It is caused by a very small parasite. Pregnant people with trich are at risk of having their babies too early or having babies with low birth weight.

How can someone get it?

People can get trich through vaginal sex with someone who is infected with it. It is not common for it to infect other parts of the body. It can spread from one vagina to another. A pregnant person can pass it to their baby during childbirth.

How can it be prevented?

Some ways trichomoniasis can be prevented are

  • using condomsinternal condoms, or dental dams as a barrier between the bodies;

  • not having sex or being abstinent;

  • getting tested regularly, especially with new sexual partners, to know your status;

  • talking openly, honestly, and without judgment with sexual partners about STIs;

  • learning how to care of your health.

Symptoms

The majority of people who get trich don’t have symptoms.

If they do, some trich symptoms can be

  • Discharge (fluid) coming from the penis or vagina in a different color, smell, or texture.

  • Burning feeling while peeing.

  • Burning or redness around the vulva.

Who should get tested?

Anyone experiencing any of the symptoms listed above. Trich is more common in people who have female reproductive systems because their body parts make it easier for an infection to happen.

How is it tested?

Trich is tested by a medical provider who will do an exam. They can test for it with a urine sample or a swab.

How is it treated?

Trich can be treated with a single dose of a prescription antibiotic. Just because someone was cured doesn’t mean that they can’t get trich again, the medication doesn’t prevent it. Many people get reinfected, which is why it is important to tell sexual partners so they can also get treatment.

Where to get checked?

If you are in Pueblo, Colorado, contact the Family Planning Clinic from Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment.

English: Call (719) 583-4380. Monday to Friday 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Español: Llama (719) 583-4376. Lunes a viernes 8:00 AM a 4:30 PM. 

If you are somewhere else in the United States you can find other resources here.

Go Ask Tara

Go Ask Tara is on a mission to provide sex education and help the youth of Colorado prevent pregnancy and STIs.