Trichomoniasis Treatment

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis. It spreads through sexual contact — genital-to-genital transmission. It's the most common non-viral STI globally. Unlike many STIs, it can survive briefly outside the body on moist surfaces, though sexual transmission is overwhelmingly the primary route.

Many people — particularly men — have no symptoms. In women, trichomoniasis typically causes frothy, yellow-green vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor, itching, burning, and redness. Men may experience urethral discharge or mild burning. Asymptomatic infections can persist for months.

Trichomoniasis does not resolve reliably without treatment — untreated infection persists and can be transmitted to partners. Treatment with a single dose of metronidazole or tinidazole is highly effective and recommended for all confirmed cases, including asymptomatic ones.

Yes — simultaneous treatment of all sexual partners is essential to prevent reinfection. Partners should be treated even without testing if possible, and both should abstain from sexual contact until treatment is complete and symptoms have resolved.

Metronidazole and tinidazole commonly cause nausea, metallic taste, and GI discomfort. Alcohol must be avoided during treatment and for 24–72 hours afterward (depending on the agent) to prevent a disulfiram-like reaction of flushing, nausea, and vomiting. Single-dose treatment is generally well tolerated. Trichomoniasis visit What to expect from a Trichomoniasis visit