Trichomoniasis Test
Reviewed
Also called: T. vaginalis test, trichomonas vaginalis testing, wet prep
This test looks for the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis in a sample of body fluid from the genital area. It is used to diagnose trichomoniasis, screen women at high risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and check for reinfection after treatment.
Specimen: Swab of vaginal fluid, urethral swab, or urine sample
Why this test may be ordered
- You have symptoms such as itching, burning, unusual discharge, or discomfort during urination or sex.
- You are a woman at high risk for STIs (e.g., multiple partners, sex without condoms, past trichomoniasis).
- You have completed treatment for trichomoniasis and need to check if the infection is gone.
Preparation and collection
No special preparation is needed.
A healthcare provider uses a small brush or swab to collect fluid from the vagina or urethra. You may feel brief discomfort. At-home collection kits (urine or vaginal swab) are also available; follow instructions carefully and discuss results with your provider.
According to MedlinePlus, there are no known risks to having a trichomoniasis test.
Understanding results
Results are typically reported as negative or positive. Your provider will interpret your results based on your symptoms, risk factors, and the specific test used (e.g., wet prep, NAAT, rapid antigen, culture).
- Negative: No parasites were seen in your sample. However, initial tests like wet prep microscopy can miss some infections. If you still have symptoms or are at high risk, your provider may recommend more accurate testing (e.g., NAAT or culture). Limitation: A negative result does not completely rule out trichomoniasis, especially if symptoms persist. Next step: Routine: Discuss with your provider whether additional testing is needed based on your symptoms and risk factors.
- Positive: Parasites were found in your sample. You have a trichomoniasis infection. This infection can be cured with antibiotics prescribed by your provider. Limitation: A positive result confirms infection, but you may need testing for other STIs because trichomoniasis increases your risk. Next step: Routine: Follow your provider’s treatment plan, take all medicine as directed, tell recent sex partners so they can get tested, and get retested if symptoms continue. Also consider testing for other STIs.
- Wet prep microscopy may miss some infections; more sensitive tests (NAAT, culture) may be needed if symptoms persist despite a negative result.
- A positive result does not indicate how long you have had the infection or when you acquired it.
- This test does not diagnose other STIs; additional testing may be recommended.
What to do next
If you test positive, your provider will prescribe antibiotics. Complete the full course, inform recent partners, and avoid sex until treatment is finished. If symptoms continue after treatment, contact your provider. To prevent future infections, use condoms correctly and consider mutual monogamy with a partner who has tested negative for STIs.
- What do my results mean for my health and my partner's health?
- Do I need any additional STI tests?
- How should I take the prescribed medicine?
- When can I have sex again after treatment?
- Should I be retested after treatment?