What is trich?

Trich (pronounced “trick”) is short for trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by a tiny parasite. Trich is one of the most common non-viral STIs in both the US and the world. It is easily treated with antibiotics.

Who is at risk?

Any sexually active person is at risk for trich.

For more information on getting tested for trich, check out our testing quiz.

How is trich transmitted?

Trich is commonly spread from person to person during sex, usually from penis to vagina, vagina to penis, or vagina to vagina. Trich can also be transmitted through use of sex toys that may not have been properly cleaned or sanitized between use.

Trich is not thought to be spread through anal or oral sex, nor is it transmitted via causual contact like kissing, hugging, sharing eating utensils, etc.

How many people are living with trich?

The CDC estimates that in 2018, there were more than 2.5 million trich infections throughout the United States.

What are the symptoms of trich?

Roughly 70% of those diagnosed with trich do not experience symptoms; however, symptoms typically arise between the 5-28 days following a symptomatic person’s exposure. Symptoms can come and go.

Vaginal symptoms include:

• Abnormally colored, odorous discharge from vagina
• Vulva/pelvic pain during sex
• Painful urination
• An itching/burning sensation

Penile symptoms include:

• Itching and irritation inside the penis
• Painful urination
• Burning following ejaculation
• Discharge from the penis

Trich can make sex very unpleasant. Without treatment, the infection can last for months, if not longer. Like other STIs, trich can also make it easier to get or pass on HIV.

I tested positive for trich, what now?

Trich can be easily treated and cured using antibiotics, which are typically a pill swallowed in a single dose. If you are being treated for trich, your partner(s) should be screened and treated upon diagnosis. Condoms should be utilized until all partners have completed treatment.

Sources:

STD Facts – Trichomoniasis | CDC