The Call-On-Doc Guide to Trichomoniasis

Symptoms may appear 5–28 days after exposure, though many people remain asymptomatic.

Common symptoms include:

In women

• Vaginal discharge (often yellow-green, frothy, or foul-smelling)

• Vaginal itching or irritation

• Pain or burning during urination

• Pain during sex

• Vulvar redness or swelling

In men

• Mild penile discharge

• Burning during urination or ejaculation

• Itching or irritation inside the penis

Because symptoms can be subtle or absent, testing is the only reliable way to confirm infection.

Trichomoniasis spreads through:

• Vaginal sex

• Genital-to-genital contact

It is less commonly transmitted through oral or anal sex, but transmission can occur even when no symptoms are present.

Diagnosis is made using laboratory testing, which may include:

• Vaginal swab testing

• Urine testing

• Rapid antigen tests or NAAT testing

Routine STI screening may not always include trichomoniasis unless symptoms or risk factors are present, making targeted testing important.

Trichomoniasis is curable with prescription medication.

Standard treatment includes:

• Metronidazole

• Tinidazole

Treatment notes:

• Medication may be given as a single dose or short course

• Avoid alcohol during treatment and for 24–72 hours afterward

• Sexual partners must be treated at the same time

• Avoid sexual activity until treatment is complete and symptoms resolve

• Retesting may be recommended in some cases

Untreated trichomoniasis can increase the risk of:

• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

• Pregnancy complications (preterm delivery, low birth weight)

• Increased susceptibility to HIV

• Ongoing genital irritation and discomfort

Early diagnosis and treatment significantly reduce these risks.

CallOnDoc provides confidential, judgment-free trichomoniasis care online.

With a virtual visit, you can:

• Discuss symptoms or exposure with a licensed provider

• Receive appropriate prescription treatment when indicated

• Avoid in-person clinic wait times

• Access discreet care quickly

Healthcare that fits your life — not your calendar.