The main symptoms of trichomoniasis include discharge with a foul odor, itching, pain or burning when urinating, and genital redness. Some women may also report bleeding outside of a period, while men may report pain during ejaculation.

Trichomoniasis is a sexually-transmitted infection (STI) caused by Trichomonas sp. parasite, which can affect both men and women.

Symptoms of trichomoniasis can take up to 28 days to appear. It is important to see a doctor for assessment if you experience similar symptoms, especially if they appear after unprotected sex. A prompt diagnosis will ensure quick treatment and prevent further complications.

Main symptoms

The main symptoms of trichomoniasis, common in both men and women, are:

Pain or burning when urinating
Urinary urgency
Genital itching
Genital skin burning
Redness in the genital area
Cloudy urine

In some cases, trichomoniasis may be asymptomatic, especially in men. Many patients may present with symptoms between 5 and 28 days after initial contact with Trichomonas sp.

Trichomoniasis symptoms are similar to the symptoms of other STIs, like gonorrhea or chlamydia. Therefore you are advised to see a doctor if you suspect you may have an STI.

Trichomoniasis in men

The main symptoms of trichomoniasis in men are:

Foul-smelling, white, fluid discharge from the urethra;
Pain around the foreskin;
Discomfort during ejaculation;
Testicular pain or pelvic discomfort;
Burning sensation during or after urination;
Mild itching or irritation in the urethra.

The symptoms trichomoniasis in men may not always be obvious, and most men are asymptomatic.

When symptoms do appear, they are usually related to inflammation of the urethra (urethritis) caused by Trichomonas sp.

In some cases, this Trichomonas sp. can travel to the prostate and lead to prostatitis.

Trichomoniasis in women

The main symptoms of trichomoniasis in women are:

Green or yellow discharge with a rotten fish smell
Itching and redness in the vagina or vulva
Genital pain
Pain during or after sex
Bleeding outside of a period
Burning after urinating or sex

Symptoms in women may be more intense during and after a period menstrual period due to increased pH in the vaginal canal, which can lead to increased growth of harmful microorganisms.

When left untreated, trichomoniasis in women affect the cervix, uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes, and lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

Confirming a diagnosis

A trichomoniasis diagnosis is initiated with an evaluation of the patient's symptoms and health history, followed by a physical examination.

During the consultation, a sample of vaginal or penile discharge is collected and sent to the laboratory for testing to identify the presence of this parasite or other microorganisms that can cause an STI.

In some cases, it is also possible to identify Trichomonas sp. in the urine and therefore your doctor may also order a urine test.

Treatment options

Treatment for trichomoniasis involves the use of antibiotics such as metronidazole or secnidazole, which help to eliminate the harmful pathogen from the body.

Because trichomoniasis is an STI, patients are advised until treatment is fully completed and ideally up to additional week after treatment has finished.

If you are diagnosed with trichomoniasis, you should inform any sexual partners and advise them to get tested, even if they are asymptomatic, as they are at risk for having contracted this STI.