Trichomoniasis is caused by the protozoa Trichomonas vaginalis. Infections occur in the lower genital tract, vulva, vagina, cervix, and urethra in women. The inside of the penis (urethra) is the most commonly infected body part in men.

According to the CDC, more than 3.7 million Americans are infected with trichomoniasis. Transmission occurs through sexual contact, where the parasite is passed from an infected individual to another. Pregnant women with trichomoniasis are more likely to give birth early and these babies often have low birth weight.

Trichomoniasis reinfections can occur after treatment through subsequent sexual contact with an infected partner; hence concurrent treatment of all sexual partners is recommended.

Most individuals (70%) infected with trichomonas are asymptomatic.

Symptoms in women

Discomfort during urination
Changes in vaginal discharge with changes in color and smell
Itching, burning or soreness of the genitals

Symptoms in men

Burning after urination or ejaculation
Itching and/or irritation inside the penis
Discharge from the urethra

Who should get tested?

You should consider getting tested if

You are sexually active
You have had unprotected sex
You are entering a new relationship
You are experiencing symptoms of an STD
You have had a partner with an STD infection

It may take up to four weeks post-exposure before chlamydial and gonorrheal infections can be detected with lab analyses. Retesting with a specimen collected at least four weeks post-exposure may be required for people who suspect a recent exposure.

HOW IT WORKS

Order your test.

Choose the test that matches your need from our large array of tests. The kit will be delivered to your door step. There is no need to leave the comfort of your home.

Collect your sample.

Register and activate your test. Collect your sample. Return your sample to our lab as soon as possible, using the prepaid envelope included in the kit.

Quality guarantee.

Your sample will be tested as soon as it arrives in our lab. Your results will be available through our secure online platform.

Details and FAQs

Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions. Please feel free to contact us if you have any other questions.

Who should get tested?

Testing should be conducted in females with abnormal vaginal discharge. Routine testing should occur in HIV-positive females. Testing should be considered in high-prevalence settings (e.g. STD clinics and correctional facilities) and in those with a high risk of infection (e.g. multiple sex partners).

Why should I get tested?

Trichomoniasis is a common STD, particularly in black females, but many infected individuals remain asymptomatic. Testing is simple and non-invasive. Treatment is simple and effective and will prevent any complications associated with this STD.

What are ways to reduce the risk of trichomoniasis?

Practicing safe sex with a latex condom significantly reduces the risk of STDs, although it is not 100% effective. Prompt treatment is important. Abstaining from sexual contact until the completion of treatment will prevent the spread of trichomoniasis to your partner.

If I get a positive result, what should I do next?

Contact a health professional to begin a course of prescribed antibiotics as soon as possible. Abstain from sexual contact until the completion of the antibiotic course. Ensure that any recent sexual partners are aware of your diagnosis so they can also request testing.

Can I get trichomoniasis again?

Yes. Although antibiotic treatment is effective for the current bacterial infection, it does not prevent future infections through exposure to an infected individual.

How do I collect a test sample?

Collect 20-30 ml of the initial urine stream into the sterile urine collection container. Urine must be collected at least 1 hour after previous urination. Transfer 2 ml of urine into the sample transport tube and seal in the transport bag.

How is trichomoniasis treated?

Trichomoniasis is effectively treated with a course of antibiotics. It is important to complete the antibiotic course as prescribed and to abstain from sexual contact until the treatment is complete.

How does the trichomoniasis test work?

Our lab uses a molecular testing technique known as a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) to detect the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis nucleic acid in the urine sample. NAATs are the most sensitive method for trichomoniasis diagnosis.