What is it?

This test uses a sample of urine or other body fluid to look for the tiny parasite that causes trichomoniasis (also called trich). The fluid sample can come from the vagina, cervix, or urethra. Your doctor may choose to use one or more of many available tests.

Why is it done?

A trich test may be done to:

• Find out if symptoms are caused by trich.
• Check people who are at high risk for being infected with trich.
• Check after treatment to make sure that the infection is gone.

How do you prepare for the test?

If you are going to have a urine test, do not urinate for at least 1 hour before the test.

How is the test done?

• For a direct sample, a swab is used to collect body fluid from the cervix, vagina, or urethra. Your doctor may collect the sample. Or you may be given instructions on how to collect your own sample.
• For a urine sample, you will collect the urine that comes out when you first start to urinate. Don't wipe the area clean before you urinate.

How long does the test take?

It will take a few minutes to collect a sample.

What happens after the test?

• You can go home right away.
• You can go back to your usual activities right away.
• You may get the test results the same day or several days later. It depends on the test used.
• If you do have an infection, don't have sexual intercourse for 7 days after you start treatment. Your sex partner or partners should also be treated.