Loading...

Trichomoniasis: Know the Signs & Get Tested

Irys Medical Center in Nairobi provides fast microscopy testing for trichomoniasis. Early detection prevents complications, especially during pregnancy.

Trichomoniasis testing at Irys Medical Center

What Is Trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. It affects both women and men, though symptoms are more common in women. It is the most common non-viral STI worldwide.

Key Facts

Single-celled parasite that lives in the genital tract. Fully curable with proper care. Often coexists with other STIs.

Symptoms to Watch For

In Women
  • Frothy yellow-green discharge
  • Strong vaginal odor
  • Itching or irritation
  • Pain during intercourse or urination
In Men
  • Often no symptoms
  • Mild urethral discharge
  • Burning after urination or ejaculation
Clinical Sign

Strawberry cervix — red, inflamed cervix visible during exam

Note: Many people have no symptoms but can still spread the infection.

How Trichomoniasis Spreads

Primary Transmission
  • Unprotected vaginal intercourse
  • Direct genital skin-to-skin contact
  • Sharing sex toys
Not Transmitted By
  • Kissing or hugging
  • Sharing food or drinks
  • Toilet seats or swimming pools
  • Casual contact

Testing at Irys Medical Center

We use wet mount microscopy to detect moving parasites in a vaginal or urethral sample.

Fast Results

Testing takes under 10 minutes
Results available same visit

Who Should Test?

Pregnant women
New or multiple partners
Unusual discharge or odor
Planning pregnancy

Walk-in testing available. No appointment needed.

Prevention Tips

Protect Yourself
  • Use condoms consistently
  • Get tested with new partners
  • Avoid sharing sex toys (or clean thoroughly)
  • Limit number of sexual partners
  • Attend regular STI screenings
Avoid These
  • Douching (disrupts natural balance)
  • Unprotected sex
  • Ignoring mild symptoms

Partner treatment is essential to prevent reinfection. Both partners should be tested and treated simultaneously.

Possible Complications

Untreated trichomoniasis can increase the risk of:

  • HIV transmission
  • Other STIs (gonorrhea, chlamydia)
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
  • Infertility in severe cases

Men may develop prostatitis or urethral strictures if untreated.

Trichomoniasis During Pregnancy

Trich is common in pregnancy and can lead to:

  • Preterm delivery
  • Low birth weight
  • Postpartum infection

Screening is routine at the first prenatal visit. Safe care is available after the first trimester. Report any discharge or odor immediately.

Daily Hygiene Tips

Wash external genital area daily with mild, unscented soap. Avoid internal douching. Wear breathable cotton underwear. Change out of wet clothes promptly. After sex, urinate and gently clean the area.

Use water-based lubricants if needed. Avoid spermicides containing nonoxynol-9, which can irritate tissue.

Trichomoniasis Myths vs. Facts

Myth: "Only women get trich."
Fact: Men can carry and transmit the parasite without symptoms.
Myth: "Trich goes away on its own."
Fact: It requires medical care to clear.
Myth: "Condoms don’t prevent trich."
Fact: Condoms significantly reduce transmission risk.
Myth: "You can get trich from a toilet seat."
Fact: The parasite cannot survive outside the body for long.

When to Seek Help

Visit Irys Medical Center if you experience:

  • Frothy or unusual discharge
  • Fishy odor, especially after sex
  • Vaginal or penile irritation
  • Pain during sex or urination
  • Pregnant and suspect infection
  • New partner or multiple partners

Early testing prevents complications and protects your health.