Trichomoniasis (often known as 'trich') is an infection caused by Trichomonas vaginalis and is common in New Zealand.
Trichomoniasis is passed on by having sex, sexual contact or sex play with another person with trichomoniasis. Ιt can also be passed on by sharing sex toys, e.g. vibrators.
Some people don’t notice any symptoms and don’t know they have the infection. Symptoms may develop after sexual contact with someone else with the infection. It is more common for symptoms to show in people with a vagina.
The genital inflammation caused by trichomoniasis can increase susceptibility to HIV infection for people with a vagina if exposed to the virus. Having trichomoniasis may increase the chance that an HIV-infected person with a vagina passes HIV to their sex partner(s).
To get tested for trichomoniasis, you will need to see your doctor, nurse or sexual health clinic for a check-up. People with a vagina will have a vaginal swab. Trichomoniasis is difficult to test for in people with a penis, so they are usually just treated if they have had sex with someone with trichomoniasis.
Trichomoniasis is treated with antibiotics, which is very effective. A single dose of the right antibiotic usually cures it. The tablets sometimes make you feel a bit sick, but it helps if you take them with food. Don’t drink alcohol for 24 hours after taking the tablets as it will make you feel really sick.
Condoms used correctly every time you have sex from start to finish will provide protection from trichomoniasis and offer good protection from many other sexually transmitted infections.
If you are diagnosed with trichomoniasis, you’ll need to inform anyone you have had sexual contact with in the last three months. It is important that they are tested and treated too. Your nurse, doctor or sexual health clinic can help you deal with this situation, or read our page on How to tell a partner about STIs?