Did you know trichomoniasis, a common STD (sexually transmitted disease) caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis, affects up to 2% of women in the United States? While many people may not have symptoms, early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent complications. This blog post will guide you through everything you need to know about trichomoniasis, including testing options like convenient at-home trichomoniasis tests and walk-in lab testing.
Quick Guide
Disclaimer: This information is based on research and is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. Please note that the writer has not personally used or tested these products.
What is Trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a single-celled parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. This parasite infects the urogenital tract (the urinary system and reproductive organs) in both men and women. While it doesn’t usually cause serious health problems, if left untreated, trichomoniasis can increase your risk of contracting other STDs, including HIV.
How Does Trichomoniasis Spread?
Trichomoniasis spreads most commonly through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the infection. During sex, the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis can be passed from an infected person’s genitals (penis, vagina, or mouth) to an uninfected partner’s genitals through contact with infected fluids like semen (cum), pre-seminal fluid (pre-cum), or vaginal fluids.
It’s important to note that while less common, trichomoniasis can also be spread in a few other ways:
- Skin-to-skin contact: While less likely, there’s a small chance of transmission through direct skin-to-skin contact with the infected genitals.
- Sharing sex toys: Sharing sex toys that haven’t been properly cleaned and disinfected after use by someone with trichomoniasis can also transmit the infection.
- Mother to child: In rare cases, a mother with trichomoniasis can pass the infection to her baby during childbirth.
Here’s what Trichomoniasis doesn’t spread through:
- Casual contact: You cannot get trichomoniasis from kissing, hugging, sharing towels, toilet seats, or swimming pools.
- Everyday utensils: Sharing plates, cups, or utensils with someone who has trichomoniasis is not a risk factor.
Staying informed about how STDs like trichomoniasis spread is crucial for protecting your health and the health of your partner(s). If you’re concerned about your risk of trichomoniasis or other STDs, consider getting tested. We offer convenient at-home trichomoniasis test kits and walk-in lab testing options for your peace of mind.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms for Trichomoniasis?
The tricky part about trichomoniasis is that many people, especially men, may not experience any symptoms at all. This can make it difficult to diagnose and can lead to unknowingly spreading the infection to others.
However, if you do experience symptoms, they may appear anywhere from 5 to 28 days after exposure.
Trichomoniasis Symptoms In Women
- Vaginal discharge: This is often the most noticeable symptom. The discharge may be thin or frothy, with a greenish or yellowish tinge and an unpleasant fishy odor.
- Genital irritation: You might experience itching, burning, or redness around the vagina and vulva (the outer lips of the vagina).
- Discomfort during urination or sex: Trichomoniasis can cause pain or burning when you pee or have sex.
- Lower abdominal pain: In some cases, you might feel discomfort or pain in your lower belly.
Trichomoniasis Symptoms In Men
- Urinary symptoms: Men with trichomoniasis may experience burning or stinging sensation during urination, or an increased need to pee.
- Penile discharge: A thin, white discharge from the penis can be a sign of trichomoniasis in men.
- Urethral irritation: There might be burning, itching, or redness around the opening of the penis (urethra).
It’s important to remember that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to get tested for trichomoniasis and other STDs to receive proper diagnosis and treatment.
Who Can/Should Get Tested for Trichomoniasis?
- Anyone experiencing symptoms: If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned earlier, such as vaginal discharge, burning during urination, or genital irritation, getting tested for trichomoniasis is crucial. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and further spread of the infection.
- People with a history of STIs: If you’ve ever been diagnosed with another STD, you’re at a higher risk of contracting trichomoniasis. Getting tested regularly is a good idea to ensure your sexual health.
- People with multiple sexual partners: Having multiple sexual partners increases your risk of exposure to various STDs, including trichomoniasis. Routine testing is recommended for those with active sex lives.
- Pregnant women: While uncommon, trichomoniasis can increase the risk of premature birth and low birth weight. Pregnant women are routinely screened for trichomoniasis as a precaution.
Additionally, some healthcare providers may recommend testing for people who:
- Have or live with someone who has a weakened immune system: A weakened immune system makes you more susceptible to infections, including trichomoniasis.
- Are considering getting pregnant: Treating trichomoniasis before pregnancy is important to reduce the risk of complications for both mother and baby.
Remember, getting tested is the only way to know for sure if you have trichomoniasis. We offer convenient options for both at-home trichomoniasis tests and walk-in lab testing for your comfort and privacy.
Recommended Tests
myLAB Box At Home Trichomoniasis Test
About the test
The myLAB Box Trichomoniasis Test is an at-home testing kit designed to detect Trichomonas vaginalis, the parasite that causes trichomoniasis. Users collect a urine sample (for men) or a vaginal swab (for women) using the provided materials and then mail the sample to a certified lab using the prepaid shipping envelope. Results are typically available online within 2–5 days, and if positive, myLAB Box offers a free physician consultation for treatment guidance. This discreet and convenient test allows users to check for trichomoniasis without visiting a clinic.
Tests for: RNA of Trichomonas vaginalis using Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAAT)
How it works: Buy a kit from mylabbox.com, collect the samples required and mail it to a myLAB Box lab with a prepaid envelope
Specimen required: Urine sample (for men) or a vaginal swab (for women)
Results in: 2 – 5 business days
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Test at home without visiting a clinic or doctor’s office. ✅ Processed by CLIA-certified labs, ensuring reliable results. ✅ Access to professional advice and treatment options if positive. ✅ Ensures confidentiality from order to delivery. | ❌ Requires proper handling of urine or swabs, which may be tricky for some users. |
Personalabs Trichomoniasis Test (Female)
About the test
The Personalabs Trichomoniasis Test (Female) is a lab-based test that requires users to visit a local Quest Diagnostics facility for sample collection. After purchasing the test online, users receive a lab order, which they take to a participating Quest Diagnostics location, where a vaginal swab sample is collected by a healthcare professional. The sample is analyzed using Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAAT) to detect the RNA of Trichomonas vaginalis with high accuracy. Results are typically available within 2–10 business days through the Personalabs online portal, and a doctor’s consultation is available for positive cases to discuss treatment options.
- Tests for: RNA of Trichomonas vaginalis using Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAAT)
- How it works: Buy a lab test from Personalabs.com and schedule an appointment at your nearest local lab
- Specimen required: Vaginal swab
- Results in: 2 – 10 business days
- Special preparation: Women should not cleanse the labial area prior to providing the specimen.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Professional sample collection that reduces the risk of user error compared to at-home collection. ✅ Processed by CLIA-certified labs, ensuring reliable results. ✅ Access to professional advice and treatment options if positive. | ❌ Treatment prescriptions only in the following states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Washington DC, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming. |
Trichomonas vaginalis RNA, Qualitative, TMA, Males
About the test
The Personalabs Trichomonas vaginalis RNA, Qualitative, TMA Test (Males) is a lab-based test designed to detect Trichomonas vaginalis in men using Transcription-Mediated Amplification (TMA). After purchasing the test online, users receive a lab order to take to a participating Quest Diagnostics facility, where they provide a urine sample. The sample is analyzed in a certified lab, and results are typically available within 2–10 business days through the Personalabs online portal. If the test is positive, a doctor consultation is available to discuss treatment options.
- Tests for: Trichomonas vaginalis RNA in men using Transcription-Mediated Amplification (TMA), a highly sensitive RNA detection method
- How it works: Buy a lab test from Personalabs.com and schedule an appointment at your nearest local lab
- Specimen required: Urine
- Results in: 2 – 10 business days
- Special preparation: Avoid urinating for at least one hour before providing your sample. Ideally, collect your first urine sample of the day. Your lab will provide detailed instructions to ensure a sterile collection.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Professional sample collection that reduces the risk of user error compared to at-home collection. ✅ Processed by CLIA-certified labs, ensuring reliable results. ✅ Access to professional advice and treatment options if positive. | ❌ Treatment prescriptions only in the following states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Washington DC, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming. |
MyLAB Box Uber Box
About the test
The myLAB Box Uber Box is a comprehensive at-home STD testing kit that screens for 8 common STDs: Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis C, Herpes Type 2, HIV (I & II), Syphilis, and Trichomoniasis. After ordering online, users collect their samples using a finger-prick blood test, a urine sample, and/or a vaginal or throat swab, depending on the infections being tested. The samples are then mailed to a CLIA-certified laboratory using a prepaid return envelope. Results are available within 2-5 days via a secure online portal, and if any test is positive, myLAB Box provides a free physician consultation for treatment guidance and potential prescriptions.
- Tests for: Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis C, HIV (I & II), Herpes Simplex 2, Syphilis, and Trichomoniasis
- How it works: Buy a kit from mylabbox.com, collect the samples required and mail it to a myLAB Box lab with a prepaid envelope
- Specimen required: Finger prick blood sample and a urine sample for men or vaginal swab for women
- Results in: 3 – 5 business days
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Screens for 8 common STDs in a single kit. ✅ Test at home without needing a clinic visit. ✅ CLIA-Certified Labs ✅ Includes a free physician consultation if results are positive. ✅ Shipped in plain, unmarked packaging for privacy. | ❌ Requires proper handling of blood, urine, and/or swabs, which may be tricky for some users. ❌ Some STDs (like HIV and syphilis) may not show up immediately after exposure, requiring retesting later. |
What Does This Test Test For?
A trichomoniasis test specifically detects the presence of the parasite that causes the infection: Trichomonas vaginalis.
There are two main types of tests available:
- Vaginal Swab Test: This is the most common type of test for women. A healthcare professional or you, in the case of an at-home test kit, will use a soft swab to collect a sample of cells from your vagina. The sample is then analyzed in a laboratory to look for the parasite itself or its genetic material.
- Urine Test: While less common than the vaginal swab test, a urine test can also be used to detect trichomoniasis in both men and women. This test involves collecting a sample of your urine in a cup. The urine is then analyzed in a lab to detect the presence of the parasite.
Laboratory Analysis: The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. There are two main methods used to detect Trichomonas vaginalis:
- Microscopy: Lab technicians will examine the sample under a microscope to look for the motile (moving) parasite itself. This method is quick and relatively inexpensive, but it can miss some infections, especially if the parasite concentration is low.
- Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT): This is a more sensitive test that detects the genetic material of the parasite. NAAT is more accurate than microscopy, especially for people without symptoms. However, it may take slightly longer to get results.
It’s important to note that
- No single test is 100% accurate. Sometimes, a retest might be necessary, especially if symptoms persist after treatment.
- At-home trichomoniasis test kits offer a convenient and discreet option, but lab testing might provide faster results in some cases.
Choosing the Right Trichomoniasis Test: At-Home vs. Lab Testing
Both at-home trichomoniasis test kits and lab testing offer effective ways to detect the infection, but the right choice for you depends on your priorities. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each option to help you decide:
At-Home Trichomoniasis Test Kits
Pros
- Privacy and Convenience: The biggest advantage is conducting the test in the comfort and privacy of your own home. You can test on your own schedule without needing a doctor’s appointment.
- Discretion: At-home kits eliminate the need to discuss your concerns with a healthcare professional before testing.
- Easy to Use: Most kits come with clear instructions, making sample collection a simple and painless process.
Cons
- Slower Results: At-home test results typically take a few business days after the lab receives your sample.
- Potential for User Error: Improper sample collection can lead to inaccurate results. Carefully follow the kit’s instructions to minimize this risk.
- Limited Follow-up: At-home test kits typically don’t include consultations with healthcare providers. If your test is positive, you’ll need to schedule a doctor’s appointment for diagnosis and treatment.
- Recommendations:
Lab Testing
Pros
- Fast Results: Lab testing often provides results within a few days, sometimes even on the same day, depending on the facility.
- Professional Sample Collection: A healthcare professional will collect the sample, reducing the risk of user error.
- Doctor Consultation: Lab testing often includes a follow-up consultation with your doctor to discuss the results and receive a treatment plan if needed.
Cons
- Less Privacy: Lab testing requires a visit to a healthcare facility, which may involve discussing your concerns with a healthcare professional.
- Less Convenient: Scheduling an appointment and traveling to a lab can be more time-consuming than using an at-home kit.
- Potential Cost: Lab testing may be more expensive than at-home kits, depending on your insurance coverage.
- Recommendations:
The Bottom Line
- Choose at-home testing if: Privacy and convenience are your top priorities, and you’re comfortable following clear instructions for sample collection.
- Choose lab testing if: You want faster results or prefer professional sample collection and a doctor’s consultation included.
Is There a Cure for Trichomoniasis?
Absolutely! Trichomoniasis is one of the most curable sexually transmitted infections (STIs). With proper treatment, most people can clear the infection within a week.
Here’s what you need to know about treatment:
- Antibiotics: Treatment for trichomoniasis involves a course of antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare professional. The most common medications used are metronidazole or tinidazole. These medications are typically taken as a single dose or in multiple doses over a few days.
- Partner Treatment: It’s crucial for your sexual partner(s) to get tested and treated for trichomoniasis as well, even if they don’t have any symptoms. This helps prevent re-infection.
- Completing the Treatment: It’s important to finish the entire course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve. Stopping treatment early can increase your risk of treatment failure and re-infection.
- Avoiding Sex During Treatment: Abstain from sexual intercourse until you and your partner(s) have completed treatment to prevent spreading the infection.
Remember, early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing complications from trichomoniasis. If you test positive for trichomoniasis, a healthcare professional can discuss the treatment plan and answer any questions you may have.
How Can You Reduce Your Risk of Trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis is a common STD, but there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of contracting it:
- Practice Consistent and Correct Condom Use: Condoms, both male and female, are the most effective way to prevent the spread of STDs, including trichomoniasis. Make sure to use condoms correctly every time you have vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
- Limit Your Number of Sexual Partners: The more sexual partners you have, the greater your risk of contracting STDs, including trichomoniasis. Consider having a monogamous relationship with a partner who has also been tested for STDs.
- Get Tested Regularly: If you’re sexually active, especially with new partners, getting tested for STDs, including trichomoniasis, is crucial. We offer convenient at-home trichomoniasis test kits and walk-in lab testing for regular testing and peace of mind.
- Avoid Douching: Douching can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina, making you more susceptible to infections like trichomoniasis. Opt for gentle washing with warm water and unscented soap for external cleansing.
- Communicate Openly with Your Partner(s): Talking openly and honestly with your partner(s) about sexual health is essential. Discuss getting tested for STDs before engaging in sexual activity and be upfront about any symptoms you experience.
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting trichomoniasis and other STDs. Remember, protecting your sexual health is important.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health.