Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

Trichomoniasis, or "trich," is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases in the United States. Both men and women can get trich, but women between the ages of 16-to-35 years of age are most affected. Two to three million people are infected with this parasite every year in the United States. Trich is primarily spread through sexual contact. Although rare, trich may also be contracted through shared wet towels, washcloths and bathing suits.

Signs and symptoms of trich in women are a greenish-yellow, frothy vaginal discharge; a foul, fishy odor; vaginal itching and redness; painful sexual intercourse; pain in the lower abdomen; and an urge to urinate. Most women who develop symptoms do so within 6 months of being infected. Discomfort can last weeks to months if not treated. Trichomoniasis does not typically cause symptoms in males and can be difficult to diagnose in men. If symptoms do occur, the most common are discharge from the penis, the urge to urinate and burning with urination.

An infection with trich can be cured. Any symptoms should be diagnosed and treated by a health professional. If a sex partner has been diagnosed with trich, seek medical advice, even if symptoms are not present. If infected, refrain from sexual activity until the infection is treated and cured. Inform sex partners so that they can be tested and treated. Babies born to infected women may contract trich during delivery and should receive treatment.

Prevent trich by not having sex or by having sex only with an uninfected partner. Risk can be reduced by correct and consistent condom use. For more information, call the Genesee County Health Department at (810) 257-3440.