Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a microscopic parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. It can affect both men and women, often without symptoms. Despite this, testing and proper diagnosis are important to manage the infection and prevent complications. Untreated trichomoniasis can increase the risk of acquiring or transmitting other STIs, including HIV.
Common Testing Locations
Various healthcare facilities offer trichomoniasis testing. Primary care physicians can diagnose and treat this infection. Women can seek testing from gynecologists, while men might consult urologists.
Sexual health clinics, including STI clinics and organizations like Planned Parenthood, are common and accessible options. Urgent care centers also offer testing for quick assessment.
Beyond traditional clinics, some independent laboratories allow testing without a doctor’s order. At-home collection kits are also available, where you collect a sample and send it for analysis. Accessibility and cost can vary by facility and location.
What to Expect During Testing
Testing typically begins with a discussion about your symptoms and sexual history with a healthcare provider. This confidential conversation helps determine the most suitable testing method. Sample collection depends on biological sex.
For women, a healthcare professional may collect a vaginal swab, or you might self-collect the sample. A urine sample can also be used. For men, a urine sample is typically collected, though a urethral swab might also be used. The collection process is usually quick and may involve brief discomfort.
After collection, the sample is sent for laboratory analysis. Several testing methods exist, including wet-mount microscopy, which provides quick results. Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) are considered the most accurate, detecting the parasite’s genetic material. Rapid antigen tests are also available, providing results in minutes. Depending on the test used, results can be available within hours or a few days.
Understanding Test Results and Treatment
Once your trichomoniasis test is processed, results are typically communicated via phone, secure online portal, or a follow-up appointment. A positive result confirms the presence of the Trichomonas vaginalis parasite. A negative result means the parasite was not detected. If symptoms persist despite a negative wet-mount microscopy result, further testing with more sensitive methods might be recommended.
Treatment involves oral antibiotics, commonly metronidazole, tinidazole, or secnidazole. A healthcare provider may prescribe a single, large dose or a 7-day course of a lower dose. It is important to complete the entire medication course as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully cleared.
To prevent reinfection and further spread, all sexual partners should be tested and treated simultaneously. Individuals undergoing treatment should avoid sexual activity until both they and their partners have completed medication and symptoms have resolved, typically about one week. Due to a high reinfection rate, retesting is recommended for women approximately three months after treatment to confirm clearance.