Sexual Health
Trichomoniasis: Why Discharge Symptoms May Need Testing
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause discharge, irritation or pain when passing urine. Some people have no symptoms at all.
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause discharge, irritation or pain when passing urine. Some people have no symptoms at all.
Avoid guessing from colour or smell
Yellow-green or frothy discharge can occur, but appearance alone is not enough to identify the cause. Other infections and non-infectious conditions can produce overlapping symptoms.
Seek an assessment if you have new discharge or discomfort, or if a partner has been diagnosed. Tell the clinician if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.
Follow a complete treatment plan
Testing and prescribed treatment help address the infection appropriately. Partners may need treatment even if they feel well, and you should follow advice about when sex can safely resume.
Do not use a thrush treatment repeatedly without checking the diagnosis. Ask about medicine instructions, interactions and what to do if a dose is missed or vomiting occurs.
Clarify what happens next
Ask whether repeat testing is recommended and when to return if symptoms do not settle. Persistent symptoms deserve review rather than another unprescribed course of treatment.
The consultation is also an opportunity to discuss testing for other infections where appropriate. You can request privacy and agree how results will be sent. A clear plan should cover your treatment, partner care and prevention of reinfection, without assuming that symptom improvement alone proves every part of the problem has been resolved.
Further reading and care
For an individual assessment with Dr. Aishwarya Parulekar Pai, contact the clinic and confirm the appointment location before travelling.
Related reading
Chlamydia Testing: Why No Symptoms Does Not Mean No Infection