Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis (usually called “trich”) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It’s caused by the parasite trichomonas vaginalis.

Approximately 70% of people* infected with trichomoniasis do not experience symptoms, with most of those being people assigned male at birth (AMAB).

Common symptoms of trich* include the following:

• Genital burning, itching, redness or soreness
• Pain during urination
• Pain during sex
• Discharge from the penis or vagina

Pregnant people with trichomoniasis have a higher risk of giving birth prematurely and having a baby with a low birth weight.

People assigned female at birth (AFAB) may also experience the following symptoms:

• Pelvic pain
• Vaginal discharge with a foul smell that is thin or frothy

AMAB people may experience the following symptoms:

• Burning during urination or after ejaculation
• Pain or irritation from inside the penis
• Thin, white discharge from the penis

A MinuteClinic provider can review medical history and symptoms. They can perform a physical exam and order tests that use urine or vaginal fluid to check for trichomoniasis. They can prescribe medication and develop a treatment plan. They can also discuss safe sex practices to help prevent future infections.

1. You may have to answer a few questions to help us prepare for your visit prior to scheduling your appointment.

2. Check-in varies depending on how you scheduled your appointment:

   If you made your appointment online:
   Check in using the email or text message we sent to confirm your appointment. If you prefer to check in using the electronic kiosk, make sure you have your confirmation code.

   If you made your appointment in the clinic:
   Sign in at the electronic kiosk.

   If you made a MinuteClinic Virtual Care® appointment:
   To join your virtual visit, use the link in the email or text message we sent you to confirm your appointment. Please join 15 minutes before your scheduled visit time. You will need your date of birth, email address and phone number to join the visit.

3. When it's time for your appointment, a provider will call your name.
4. Your provider will conduct a thorough examination based on your reason for visit, presenting symptoms and health history. Charges will be based on examination and services provided during the visit.
5. At the end of your visit, you are provided with a visit summary, a receipt and educational material. At your request, we can send your primary care provider information about your visit.

Trich can spread from person to person during sex without a condom. The parasite spreads from penis to vagina, from vagina to penis, or from vagina to vagina. It’s not common for it to spread to other parts of the body.

A health care provider may prescribe medication, if necessary. They may ask someone to abstain from sexual intercourse until the infection is fully cleared.

The only way to fully prevent infection is to avoid sexual activity.* However, there are steps people can take* to help prevent and reduce the risk of infection:

• Use a barrier prevention method like condoms during vaginal sex
• Get annual screenings for STIs
• Have a partner tested before any sexual activity
• Be in a mutually monogamous relationship where both partners have been tested
• Avoid sex with people who show symptoms

A MinuteClinic provider can review medical history and symptoms. They can perform a physical exam and order tests that use urine or vaginal fluid to test for trichomoniasis. They can prescribe medication and develop a treatment plan based on test results. They can also discuss safe sex practices to help prevent future infections.