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Trichomoniasis: Symptoms, Testing and Treatment in Seoul

What is trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis (“trich”) is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by Trichomonas vaginalis , a tiny single-celled parasite. It is one of the most common curable STIs in the world. It spreads through sexual contact and can infect the vagina and urethra, and in men, the urethra and prostate.

What are the symptoms of trichomoniasis?

Many people have no symptoms at all, so they can pass the infection on without knowing. When symptoms happen, they may include:

• Frothy, yellow-green or gray vaginal discharge
• A strong or unpleasant odor
• Itching, burning, or redness of the vulva and vagina
• Discomfort when urinating
• Pain or discomfort during sex

These symptoms overlap with bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections, which is why testing matters.

What causes trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is passed on during vaginal sex and through genital contact. Risk is higher with a new partner, more than one partner, a history of other STIs, or sex without condoms. It is not passed on through toilet seats or casual contact.

When should I see a doctor?

See a doctor if you have new discharge, odor, itching, or pain when urinating, or if a partner tells you they have been diagnosed with trichomoniasis or another STI. If you are pregnant, testing is important because untreated trichomoniasis has been linked to preterm birth and low birth weight. Trichomoniasis can also make it easier to get or pass on other STIs, including HIV.

How is trichomoniasis diagnosed at the clinic?

The doctor asks about your symptoms and sexual health history in a private, non-judgmental way. A vaginal swab is taken during a short speculum exam. The sample can be looked at under a microscope, but a laboratory test that detects the parasite's genetic material (a PCR or similar nucleic acid test) is more sensitive. Because STIs often occur together, the doctor may recommend a wider STD testing panel, including chlamydia and gonorrhea.

How is trichomoniasis treated?

Trichomoniasis is treated with prescription antibiotic tablets from a class of medicines called nitroimidazoles. Key points:

• All sexual partners should be tested and treated at the same time, even without symptoms, to prevent passing the infection back and forth.
• Avoid sex until you and your partners have finished treatment and symptoms are gone.
• Avoid alcohol during treatment and for a short time afterward, as the doctor advises.
• Reinfection is common, so a repeat test is often recommended about three months after treatment.

Individual results vary.

How can I prevent trichomoniasis?

• Use condoms correctly every time you have sex.
• Get tested with new partners, and make sure partners are treated if you are diagnosed.
• Consider regular STI testing if you have new or multiple partners.

For more on testing options and privacy, see our guide to STD testing in Korea.

Getting care in English near Seongsu Station

If you have symptoms or a partner has been diagnosed, you can be tested and discuss treatment privately in English. Dr. Eun Mi-na, a female board-certified OB-GYN, sees patients in English at Eunice Women's Clinic.

•  Address: 8F Bethel Place, 120 Achasan-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, across the crosswalk from Seongsu Station (Line 2) Exit 3, about a 1-minute walk
• Mon, Wed, Fri: 10:00–19:00
• Tue, Thu: 10:00–20:00 (evening clinic)
• Sat: 10:00–14:00 (no lunch break)
• Weekday lunch break: 13:30–14:30. Closed Sundays and Korean public holidays

You can book through Naver Booking, the KakaoTalk channel (search “유니스산부인과” or Eunice), or by phone at +82-2-467-3100. Booking is recommended; call or message to check same-day availability. See directions from Seongsu Station.

Frequently asked questions

Can trichomoniasis go away without treatment?

In women, trichomoniasis often lasts for months or longer without treatment, even if there are no symptoms. It is curable with prescription medicine, so testing and treatment are recommended.

Does my partner need treatment for trichomoniasis?

Yes. All recent sexual partners should be tested and treated, even if they have no symptoms. Otherwise, the infection can pass back to you after your own treatment.

How soon after treatment can I have sex?

Wait until you and your partners have finished treatment and symptoms have gone. The doctor will tell you how long to wait based on the medicine prescribed.

Can I get trichomoniasis again?

Yes. Having it once does not protect you. Reinfection is common, which is why many guidelines recommend a repeat test about three months after treatment.

Is STI testing confidential at the clinic?

Medical information is protected under Korean law. Your results are discussed with you directly by the doctor in English. Ask at the visit if you have questions about records or insurance claims.

Related pages

•  STD Testing
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
• STD Testing in Korea

This page provides general health information for patients and does not replace a consultation with a doctor. Individual results vary. If you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, fainting or other urgent symptoms, call 119 or go to the nearest emergency room. Page updated September 2026.