Hesperian Health Guides
Trichomonas (Trich)
Trichomonas is an infection caused by a parasite. In the vagina, it is very uncomfortable and itchy. When the infection affects the penis, there are often no signs. If the infection is inside the penis, it can pass to the other person during sex without a condom.
Trichomonas is not dangerous but can irritate the vagina. When the vagina is irritated, getting other STIs, including HIV, is more likely.
Signs in the vagina
Bad-smelling discharge from the vagina is often trichomonas.
- discharge that is gray, yellow, or green
- bad-smelling discharge
- red and itchy vagina
- pain or burning while urinating
Treatment
Take metronidazole or tinidazole by mouth. Do not take tinidazole during pregnancy.
Your sexual partner or partners will need to be treated with the same medicine.
To feel better, sit in a pan of clean, warm water for 15 minutes as often as possible. Avoid sex until you and your partner are finished with treatment and all the signs are gone.
This page was updated:10 Jan 2023