Trichomoniasis is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide. In Singapore, many women may have it without realising it because symptoms can be mild or easily mistaken for other vaginal infections.
If you notice persistent changes in discharge, odour, or irritation, it may be related to a vaginal condition such as Trichomoniasis, bacterial vaginosis, or yeast infection. You can learn more about these conditions in our guide on Vaginal Infection.
This article explains what Trichomoniasis is, how it spreads, its symptoms, and how you can receive safe and confidential treatment in Singapore.
What Is Trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a microscopic parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. It commonly affects the vagina, cervix, and urethra in women and spreads mainly through vaginal sexual contact. The parasite cannot survive outside the human body, so non-sexual transmission is extremely rare.
This infection often goes unnoticed because many women do not develop symptoms. When present, signs may include:
- Vaginal discharge (yellow-green, frothy, or with a mild odour)
- Itching or irritation of the vaginal area
- Discomfort during urination or sexual activity
Because these symptoms can resemble other vaginal infections, such as bacterial vaginosis or yeast infection, medical testing is the only reliable way to confirm the diagnosis.
In Singapore, Trichomoniasis is a treatable condition, and early consultation helps prevent recurrence and protect reproductive health.
Causes and Risk Factors of Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is caused by a microscopic parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. It spreads through vaginal sexual contact or by sharing unclean sex toys without proper protection.
Once transmitted, the parasite attaches to the vaginal or urethral lining, multiplies, and triggers inflammation. Reinfection can occur if both partners are not treated at the same time.
Some factors may increase your risk:
- Unprotected vaginal intercourse or multiple partners
- Existing vaginal infection like bacterial vaginosis
- Hormonal changes post-menopause that changes vaginal pH
- Delayed medical consultation or incomplete treatment
Because the parasite cannot survive outside the body, it does not spread through toilet seats, towels, or casual contact.
Recognising these risk factors encourages early testing and safer sexual practices (CDC 2024).
Symptoms of Trichomoniasis in Women
Trichomoniasis can appear in different ways. Some women notice changes in vaginal discharge or irritation, while others have no symptoms at all. Because the infection can stay silent for weeks, medical testing is often the only way to confirm it.
Common symptoms may include:
- Frothy, yellow-green discharge or an unpleasant “fishy” odour
- Itching, redness, or burning around the vagina
- Discomfort during urination or sexual activity
- Mild pelvic pressure or lower abdominal pain
Symptoms may worsen after menstruation or intercourse. However, up to 70 % of women remain asymptomatic, which means the infection can still spread without obvious signs.
Since Trichomoniasis often resembles bacterial vaginosis (BV) or a yeast infection, a doctor-performed swab test is essential for accurate diagnosis.
For a clearer comparison of these conditions, read our guide on Trichomoniasis vs Yeast Infection vs BV.
How Trichomoniasis Is Diagnosed
Trichomoniasis cannot be confirmed by symptoms alone because it often mimics yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis (BV) as well as other types of STDs. Diagnosis requires a clinical examination and laboratory test performed by your doctor.
During consultation, a vaginal swab or urine sample is collected to detect the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis or its genetic material. The procedure is quick, minimally uncomfortable, and entirely confidential.
Common diagnostic methods include:
| Test Type | Purpose | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Wet-mount microscopy | Detects moving parasites under a microscope | Provides fast results but less sensitive |
| Culture test | Grows the organism for confirmation | Results take 2–3 days |
| Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) | Identifies parasite DNA or RNA | Most accurate and reliable |
Early testing enables prompt treatment and prevents reinfection. Your doctor may also recommend partner testing and screening for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Treatment Options for Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is fully treatable with oral antiprotozoal medication prescribed by a doctor. Treatment aims to clear the parasite, relieve symptoms, and stop reinfection. Both partners must be treated together to avoid recurrence.
What to Expect from Treatment
- Medication may be given as a short course over several days.
- Always complete the full course, even if symptoms improve.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women will receive medication that is safe for their condition.
Partner and Follow-Up Care
- Avoid sexual contact until both partners have finished treatment and symptoms have cleared.
- Retesting after one month helps confirm recovery and prevent reinfection.
- If symptoms return, consult your doctor for reassessment rather than self-treating.
Good genital hygiene and timely medical follow-up help ensure full recovery.
What Happens If Trichomoniasis Is Left Untreated
When untreated, Trichomonas vaginalis can cause ongoing inflammation in the vagina and cervix, even if symptoms are mild or absent. Over time, this irritation can disturb the natural vaginal flora and increase the risk of other infections.
Possible Complications:
- Recurrent infections: Persistent discharge or irritation due to surviving parasites.
- Pelvic discomfort: Ongoing inflammation may lead to abdominal or pelvic pain.
- Higher STI risk: Damaged vaginal tissue makes it easier for other infections, including HIV, to enter.
- Pregnancy concerns: Untreated infection may increase the chance of preterm birth or low-birth-weight infants.
- Fertility impact: Long-term infection can alter cervical mucus and reduce sperm mobility.
Seeking prompt medical care prevents these complications and stops reinfection between partners.
How to Prevent Trichomoniasis
While Trichomoniasis is curable, prevention remains the most effective way to protect your sexual and reproductive health. The infection spreads through genital contact, so consistent protection and regular testing are key.
Practical Prevention Tips:
- Practise safer sex: Use condoms or dental dams during intercourse and clean sex toys thoroughly or cover them with new condoms between partners.
- Get regular STI testing: Screen routinely if you have new partners or experience changes in discharge or odour. Retesting after treatment confirms clearance.
- Treat both partners: Reinfection is common when only one partner receives medication.
- Maintain vaginal health: Avoid douching and use mild, unscented cleansers to preserve natural flora.
Open discussion about sexual health and timely medical consultation are important steps in preventing Trichomoniasis.
Trichomoniasis During Pregnancy
Trichomoniasis can develop at any stage of pregnancy. While it does not directly harm the baby, untreated infection may increase the risk of preterm labour and low-birth-weight infants. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential to protect both maternal comfort and foetal health.
Why It Matters:
- The infection inflames the vaginal and cervical tissues, disrupting the uterine environment.
- Research has linked untreated cases to premature rupture of membranes and secondary infections such as bacterial vaginosis.
- Early medical management can significantly lower these risks.
Safe Care for Expectant Mothers:
- Diagnosis through vaginal swab or urine test is safe during antenatal check-ups.
- Doctors prescribe pregnancy-safe medication to clear the infection.
- When both partners are treated, it prevents reinfection and supports a healthy pregnancy.
Recurrent or Resistant Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis may return after treatment, often due to reinfection from an untreated partner or incomplete medication. Less commonly, the parasite may develop partial resistance, requiring adjusted therapy. Persistent or recurring symptoms should always prompt medical reassessment.
Common Reasons for Recurrence:
- Partner reinfection — the most frequent cause when only one partner is treated.
- Incomplete or interrupted treatment, allowing the parasite to persist.
- Rare drug resistance in some Trichomonas vaginalis strains.
Management and Prevention:
Your doctor may recommend repeat testing, a longer medication course, and partner treatment to ensure both are parasite-free. Avoid self-medicating, practise safe sex, and maintain vaginal health with pH-balanced cleansers.
Timely follow-up ensures full recovery and prevents chronic inflammation.
When to See a Doctor
Trichomoniasis is treatable, but delaying consultation or self-diagnosis may lead to persistent irritation or repeated infection. You should see a doctor promptly if you notice changes in discharge, odour, or irritation, or if your partner has been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection (STI). For confidential testing, you can visit our Vaginal Infection Treatment Singapore page.
Seek medical care if you experience:
- Unusual vaginal discharge or odour
- Itching, burning, or pain during urination or sex
- Symptoms that return after treatment
- A partner diagnosed with Trichomoniasis or another STI
- Vaginal symptoms during pregnancy
A brief swab or urine test can confirm the cause quickly and discreetly. Early consultation prevents ongoing irritation, reduces reinfection risk, and supports reproductive health.
Confidential Care at Ezra Clinic
At Ezra Clinic, consultations take place in a private, respectful setting where your comfort and dignity come first. Our female doctor, Dr Michelle Chia, provides professional and evidence-based care for vaginal infections, including Trichomoniasis.
Dr Chia emphasises that early consultation helps resolve discomfort and safeguard long-term reproductive health.
“Many women delay seeking help because they think their symptoms are normal. Trichomoniasis is treatable when diagnosed early — the key is to seek testing in a confidential, judgement-free environment.”
During your visit, you will receive:
- A thorough assessment and clear explanation of your results
- A treatment plan tailored to your needs and comfort
If you notice changes in discharge, odour, or irritation, book a private consultation for timely and discreet care.
Book a Private Consultation
If you experience vaginal discomfort, unusual discharge, or odour, schedule a confidential appointment with our female doctor.
A professional consultation ensures proper testing, accurate diagnosis, and effective treatment tailored to your needs.
