References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
Trichomoniasis in men is often asymptomatic — many men carry the parasite without knowing. When symptoms do occur, they can include mild discharge, burning on urination and irritation. Testing is important if a partner has been diagnosed or if symptoms don’t improve with standard UTI treatment.
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Symptoms in Men
| Symptom | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Mild urethral discharge | Sometimes |
| Burning on urination | Sometimes |
| Itching inside the penis | Sometimes |
| Discomfort after ejaculation | Occasionally |
| No symptoms at all | Most men |
Why Testing Matters
- Most men have no symptoms
- Untreated men continue to transmit to partners
- Partners keep getting reinfected without simultaneous treatment
- Standard STI screens don’t always include trichomoniasis
Testing
- Urine NAAT is the most accurate method
- Not always included in routine screening — ask for it
- Reliable from 1-2 weeks after exposure
Treatment
- Metronidazole (5-7 days or single 2g dose)
- Avoid alcohol during and 48 hours after
- Partners treated simultaneously
- Avoid sex until treatment complete
Read more: What is trichomoniasis? | Trichomoniasis testing | Trich vs chlamydia
Frequently Asked Questions
Is trichomoniasis common in men?
Less commonly diagnosed than in women, but that’s partly because men are less often tested.
Can trichomoniasis affect male fertility?
Some evidence suggests it may affect sperm, but more research is needed.
Should I test if my partner has trich?
Yes — get tested and treated to prevent reinfection.
Related reading
- What Is Trichomonal Vaginitis?
- What Happens If Trichomoniasis Is Left Untreated?
- Blood Test for Syphilis, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C
- Can You Get an STI From Being Fingered?
- Can You Catch an STI From a Toilet Seat?
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
