Healthcare professionals generally consider trichomoniasis a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Non-sexual transmission is considered extremely rare and not a significant concern in most cases.
Trichomoniasis, or “trich,” is a common infection caused by a microscopic parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. In nearly all cases, it spreads through skin-to-skin contact with the genitals or genital fluids.
While this is the primary route of transmission, it’s useful to understand how the infection spreads, how to manage it, and what to expect if you or a partner is diagnosed.
T. vaginalis can survive outside the body for a short time in warm, moist environments. This has led to speculation that transmission might occur through shared items such as damp towels, washcloths, or wet surfaces like toilet seats.
However, these conditions rarely result in infection, and there is little reliable evidence that non-sexual transmission plays a significant role in spreading trichomoniasis.
Any genital contact can transmit the parasite. This includes vulva-to-vulva, penis-to-vagina, penis-to-penis, penis-to-anus, or other forms of skin-to-skin contact involving the genitals or genital secretions.
Seminal fluids and vaginal secretions carrying the parasite can be spread from the genitals to sex toys. Sharing toys that haven’t been cleaned between uses or without a barrier method can transmit the parasite between partners.
Fingering and other manual stimulation can also spread the parasite through contact with genital secretions.
Does it mean that someone in a relationship cheated?
People can have trichomoniasis for months without showing any symptoms. If you or a partner suddenly have symptoms or test positive for it, it doesn’t necessarily mean that someone’s cheating.
A partner may have contracted trichomoniasis in a previous relationship and unknowingly passed it on.
While it can be tempting to jump to conclusions, try to have an open, honest conversation with each other about your sexual history and expectations moving forward.
Trichomoniasis often causes no symptoms, especially in people with penises. When symptoms do occur, they may resemble those of other infections, such as:
Trichomoniasis is diagnosed with a lab test, usually involving a swab or urine sample. Testing is available at most sexual health clinics and through some primary care providers.
Even if you don’t have symptoms, testing is recommended if you’ve had new partners since your last STI screening or if a partner tests positive.
Trichomoniasis is curable with antibiotics, most commonly metronidazole (Flagyl) or tinidazole (Tindamax). A single dose or one-week course often clears the infection.
All current sexual partners should be treated at the same time to prevent reinfection. You’ll also be advised to avoid sexual activity until the infection has cleared, typically about a week after treatment.
Follow-up testing may be recommended, especially if symptoms persist or return.
Consistent use of condoms or other barrier methods during sex can significantly lower the risk of trichomoniasis and other STIs. This includes oral, vaginal, and anal sex, as well as genital-to-genital contact without penetration.
Regular STI screening, open communication with partners, and mutual agreements about testing can help protect everyone involved.
Trichomoniasis is almost always sexually transmitted through genital contact, regardless of penetration or ejaculation. Non-sexual transmission is extremely rare and not considered a major concern by public health experts.
Treatment is simple, effective, and widely available. Regular testing, open communication, and the use of protection are key to reducing your risk for you and your partners.