Trichomonas Vaginalis

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Trichomonas Vaginalis

What is it?

Trichomonas Vaginalis is a protozoa which can infect the vaginal area and urethra in women. In men the urethra and prostate gland is affected.

Trichomonas infection is one of the most common protozoal parasites and worldwide, is a major cause of symptomatic vaginitis. Most men with Trichomonas have no symptoms. It is one of the most common yet curable Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) which occur among sexually active men and women. If you get the infection, there is an increased risk of getting other STIs if not treated.

MUMS GPs and Sexual Health Consultants offer Trichomonas Vaginalis testing. The cost of the test is £110.00. The cost of a sexual health consultation is £150.00

Trichomonas Vaginalis​ is also included in our combined STI multiple tests.

How do you get it?

Trichomonas can be passed on through oral, vaginal and anal intercourse.  Most commonly it is from penis to vagina, but can also be transferred from vulva to vulva contact between two women.

Symptoms

Like other STIs, roughly half the people infected with Trichomonas have no symptoms. In those people that get symptoms, the following may occur:

Women

• Vaginal discharge with odour.
• The vagina and vulva may itch and be unpleasant. The irritation may extend into the groin. Sex may be painful.
• Painful/ burning urination.

Men

• Discharge from the penis.
• Painful/ burning urination.
• The need to urinate more frequently (due to irritation inside the penis).

How to test and samples

MUMS test for Mycoplasma with a first catch random urine sample

Times: Incubation, results and re-test

Trichomonas has a two week incubation period.  Results are available within five days of the sample being received in the laboratory. Regular retesting is advised if the patient continues to be at risk. A repeat test is recommended with every partner change.

What to do if the test is positive

Trichomonas is treated and cured with antibiotics.  Our sexual health consultant will provide a private prescription to patients who test positive and wish to be treated privately. You should not have sex until the treatment has finished and the symptoms have gone away.