It is passed on through unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex, possibly by sharing sex toys, or from a mother to her baby at birth.

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 Signs and symptoms

 Sometimes there are no symptoms, or they are so mild they go unnoticed.

Typical signs of infection include:

• A change in vaginal discharge: this may increase, become thinner, frothy or change in smell.
• A discharge from the penis
• Inflammation, soreness or itching in and around the vagina
• Pain on passing urine in both men and women
• Pain on having sex.

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Tests and treatment

• Usually a swab is taken from the urethra, vagina or tip of the penis. This might feel a bit uncomfortable but is quick and should not be painful. A sample of urine may be taken.
• Trichomonas vaginalis is easily treated with antibiotics. To avoid re-infection, sexual partners should also be treated.
• If left untreated it doesn't cause any serious health problems.