Trichomonas vaginalis

Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) is a tiny parasite which is passed on during vaginal sex without a condom.

What might I notice?

Many people don’t have any symptoms of TV. If you have a vagina you might notice, pain in your vagina when you have sex, change in discharge, pain or itch in and around the vagina, pain when doing a wee (passing urine). If you have a penis, you may notice, burning or pain when doing a wee or liquid (discharge) from the penis.

How do I test for it?

TV can be tested using a swab in the vagina or a urine test if you have a penis. The nurse or doctor seeing you will tell you if they advise you test for TV.

You can use the service finder below to find a testing service near you.

Service Finder

How do I get treatment?

If you have TV, you will be given tablets (antibiotics) to treat it. This is usually called Metronidazole. Do not drink alcohol if you are taking Metronidazole because it will make you feel very sick.

Should I tell the people I have sex with?

If you have TV, it is important that the people you have sex with are tested and treated or you might get it back. Your nurse or doctor will help you work out which partners to tell and can help you tell them (if you want help with this). You should not have sex with them till you have both finished the tablets.