Testing for Trichomoniasis

Testing for trichomoniasis (also known as "trich" and pronounced "tr-ike") is the only way to confirm whether you have trichomoniasis or not. Testing for trich can be done by itself, or combined with other STI tests.

Since many trichomoniasis infections often have no symptoms, the CDC says testing plays an important role in getting diagnosed and treated.

What's measured by a trichomoniasis test?

Tests for trichomoniasis look for the presence of a specific parasite called, Trichomonas Vaginalis. This parasite can live within the urinary tract or vagina, and according to the CDC, can go undetected in many cases.

Types of trichomoniasis tests

Because the parasite that causes trichomoniasis lives within the vagina or urinary tract, there are two types of tests available for testing for trichomoniasis: a urine sample or a swab.

Swab testing involves using a cotton-tipped swab to collect a sample of fluid and cells from inside the vagina or from inside the penis.

A urine test involves collecting a urine sample in a sterile collection cup. Most of the time, a healthcare provider will instruct you on how to collect the urine sample yourself.

When should I get a trichomoniasis test?

If you believe you may have come in contact with trichomonas vaginalis during unprotected sexual contact, you should get tested for trichomoniasis.

If you are a woman with HIV, the CDC also recommends that you undergo routine annual trichomoniasis screening, as co-infection can increase your risk of health complications.

You should also get screened for the infection if you have new or multiple sexual partners, have a history of STIs, or are pregnant.

Like several other sexually transmitted diseases, trich doesn't always cause noticeable symptoms---roughly 70% of people with the infection don't know they have it, according to CDC data. However, asymptomatic individuals can still transmit the infection to others, as it is highly contagious.

If you believe you're suffering from symptoms of a trich infection, you should get tested for trichomoniasis as soon as possible. Getting a prompt diagnosis and appropriate medical treatment is the best way to prevent long-term health complications that an untreated infection can cause.

Testing for trichomoniasis when you're pregnant

Testing for trichomoniasis during pregnancy is recommended if you have symptoms or if you are at risk of contracting trich by having new or multiple sexual partners.

Your obstetrician can help determine if trich testing is appropriate for you. Testing for trich does not pose any risk to pregnancy.

What to expect with a trichomoniasis test

The trichomoniasis test can be done as a swab test or urine test, according to the CDC and Mayo Clinic. In some cases, a blood test may be used.

The type of trichomoniasis test you get often depends on your symptoms and medical history.

Before the test

No special preparation is required for a trichomoniasis test, however, the CDC recommends that it may be a good idea to:

• avoid having sex (you should always avoid sexual contact if you think you may have an sti or have symptoms of an infection)
• avoid douching for at least 24 hours before taking a test, as douching can wash away the vaginal cells and/or fluids required for the test
• avoid using deodorant products or cleansers on your genital area, as such products can worsen irritation and mask signs that help your doctor diagnose the infection
• avoid using the restroom for at least two hours before your doctor's appointment so that you will be able to provide enough urine.

If you're a woman, the NIH recommends trying to schedule in-office trichomoniasis testing when you don't have your period, if possible. However, do not cancel or reschedule your appointment if you get your period. The test will not be affected by your period, and it is best to be tested than to wait.

If you're taking an at-home test that requires a vaginal swab, it's best to perform the swab when you're not menstruating, in accordance with the testing kit's instructions.

During the test

A urine test is the most common method of testing for trichomoniasis, which both women and men can take.

This test will require you to collect a one- to two-ounce sample of urine that your provider will either test at the office or send to a lab for analysis. Your healthcare provider will instruct you on how to clean the genital area before collecting the urine sample.

If you're a woman visiting your healthcare provider, they may perform a pelvic exam to look for signs of the infection.

Your provider will also use a swab to gently collect a sample of cells and/or discharge from your vagina. That sample will then be sent to a lab for analysis, where a professional will view it under a microscope to look for the trichomonas vaginalis parasite.

If microscopic analysis cannot identify the parasite, the lab may culture the sample for further analysis.

For men, your doctor will perform a visual exam of your genitals to look for signs of the infection. Your provider will likely also use a swab to collect a sample of cells from your urethra, which will be examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of the parasite.

After the test

For a urine test, after collecting your sample, the healthcare worker will submit it to a lab for processing. Typically, test results are available within a few hours to several days.

Depending on the type of test, your healthcare professional can tell you more about what to expect during a trichomoniasis test.

Following a trichomoniasis test, it is recommended by the CDC to abstain from further sexual activity until after the test results are received.

If your test results indicate an active trichomoniasis infection, you should consult your healthcare provider regarding next steps and ensure you avoid spreading the infection to others.

Trichomoniasis test results

If your test comes back positive, you have a trichomoniasis infection and will need to undergo treatment, notes the CDC. Your healthcare provider will prescribe a course of medication that will treat the infection and cure any symptoms you may be experiencing.

Be sure to contact anyone whom you may have exposed to the infection to let them know you tested positive. Your sexual partner(s) should also undergo testing and treatment if they haven't already done so.

According to the National Institutes of Health, the medication prescribed for trichomoniasis treatment can cause side effects, most commonly nausea, stomach pain, and vomiting. You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking the medication, as it can make these side effects worse.

Finding a trichomoniasis test

Trichomoniasis testing is a very straightforward procedure. If you have a primary care physician, they are likely to request the test for you. The examination might take place at a medical laboratory, hospital, doctor's office, or community health center.

If you are not under the care of a physician, a trichomoniasis test can be ordered for yourself directly through Solv.

Once you've ordered the test online, you will be sent to a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA)-approved lab for your test with a physician consultation made available to you following a positive test result.

Can I get a trichomoniasis test at home?

Yes, a trichomoniasis test is one of the STD tests that you are able to screen for through an at-home testing kit, which usually involves a swab of the genitals.

However, the CDC does not recommend home tests for anyone who has active symptoms or who has had sexual contact with someone who has tested positive for trichomoniasis. This is because home tests will need to be sent to a laboratory, and results can take several days.

If you are at high risk for trichomoniasis, the CDC recommends that you be tested by a doctor near you so that you can begin treatment as soon as possible.

Cost of an trichomoniasis test

Most trichomoniasis tests are between $79 and $129, however, the cost of a trichomoniasis test will vary, depending on the type of test you choose, your location and your insurance coverage.

If you choose a test that tests for multiple STIs, including trichomoniasis, the test will be more expensive.

An expanded testing panel that tests for multiple STIs (including trichomoniasis) is available through Solv for $379.

More information about trichomoniasis

What is trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis (or "trich") is a common STD caused by infection with a parasite called trichomonas vaginalis.

According to the CDC, more than two million people in the United States get trichomoniasis each year; however, only around 30% of people with the infection ever develop symptoms.

A sexually active man can transmit trichomoniasis to a woman and vice versa; the infection can also spread through vulva-to-vulva contact. Women are more prone to trich than men, and older women tend to be more susceptible to the infection than younger females.

The CDC says that in both sexes, trichomoniasis most commonly exists within the lower genital region. In women, it typically infects the urethra, cervix, vagina, or vulva, and in men, it usually infects the urethra.

It's uncommon for trichomoniasis to spread to body parts outside of the genital area, such as the anus or mouth.

Learn more about trichomoniasis causes, symptoms and treatments

Trichomoniasis symptoms to watch for

When a trichomoniasis infection causes symptoms, it can manifest as mild irritation and discomfort or severe inflammation and pain, depending on the person.

If you develop symptoms, they may begin to appear within 5 to 28 days after exposure to the parasite. However, the CDC says symptoms can take weeks or even months to become noticeable.

Symptoms of trichomoniasis in women

Per the NIH, A woman with a symptomatic trichomoniasis infection may notice:

• grayish or greenish vaginal discharge that may appear foamy, watery, or thick and have a strong, fishy odor
• pain or burning sensation while urinating
• vaginal itching, irritation, or inflammation
• pain or discomfort while having sexual intercourse
• inflammation, burning, or soreness in the genital area that may also affect the inner thighs

Symptoms of trichomoniasis in men

Per the NIH, men with trichomoniasis don't typically have symptoms. However, a man with a symptomatic infection may notice:

• penis irritation, itching, or swelling, especially around the head or foreskin
• abnormal, watery, white discharge from the penis
• pain while urinating or with ejaculation
• an unusually frequent urge to pee

Trichomoniasis symptoms are often mild and similar to symptoms of a urinary tract infection or other STIs; because of this, a trichomoniasis infection is difficult to diagnose without a genital exam and lab testing.

Other conditions and STIs with symptoms similar to trichomoniasis include:

• yeast infections
• chlamydia
• gonorrhea
• syphilis

Individuals with mild symptoms may mistake the infection for other common conditions such as a yeast infection or urinary tract infection. Sometimes, when symptoms are very mild, people ignore them altogether.

According to the CDC, trich can last for several months or even years with no symptoms, and without treatment, it may cause long-term health issues.