What is Trichomoniasis?

• Trichomoniasis or “Trich,” is an infection caused by the parasite ‘Trichomonas Vaginalis’.

• Symptoms are not common, and only about 30% of those infected experience any. For people with vaginas, symptoms can include an itching, burning and/or redness/soreness of the genitals, discomfort with urination and/or a change in vaginal discharge (thinness or increased volume) that can be yellowish, greenish, white with an unusual fishy smell. For those with penises, symptoms can include an itching or irritation inside the penis from the urethra, burning after ejaculation or urination, and/or a discharge from the penis.

What are the risks associated with Trichomoniasis?

• Trichomoniasis is transmitted via barrierless contact by engaging in PIV sex and it can also transmit from vagina to vagina. Those without symptoms can still be infectious.

• If another performer has trichomoniasis, you can be exposed to it through barrierless contact between genitals can lead to exposure to trichomoniasis. Ejaculation is not necessary for transmission.

• Although rare, it is possible for the parasite to remain alive and infectious outside of the body for a few hours.

How can transmission of Trichomoniasis be prevented?

• Transmission can be prevented through testing. You can only contract Trichomoniasis if someone else has it. Make sure to always check your scene partners availability to reduce the risk of being exposed to Trichomoniasis.

• Condoms and other barriers can reduce the risk of exposure in the area that they cover.

What treatments are available for those who have contracted Trichomoniasis?

• Once diagnosed by a laboratory test, Trich is treated with prescription medication. 

• Generally 1 in 5 people get reinfected within 3 months of receiving treatment so it is highly recommended that all sexual partners be tested and treated accordingly. It is also highly recommended that one does not engage in sexual contact until 7-10 days after treatment has begun. Consuming alcohol within 24 hours of taking the medication is also not recommended.

What happens if I test positive for Trichomoniasis in the PASS system? 

• If a performer is tested positive for Trichomoniasis in the PASS system, the lab will inform the performer of their test result. Once a performer has received treatment, they will be asked to retest after the treatment is completed. If the next test is negative and their last test has not expired yet, they will be cleared for the remainder of the 14days. If the test has expired, they will have to retest for the entire protocol.

• Others will not know that you have trichomoniasis. PASS was created to protect your medical privacy, and the system does not contain any of your medical information; Your test results are between you, the clinic only, and your medical provider only. 

More resources:

• The CDC has information related to Trichomoniasis, prevention methods, and access to treatment. 

• Planned Parenthood can direct you to information surrounding Trichomoniasis prevention. 

• Full panel STI testing and treatment is available at the Los Angeles LGBT Center. Regardless of your ability to pay, the Los Angeles LGBT Center provides a sex-positive, sex worker safe clinic.