Trichomonas vaginalis Detection (Urine)
This test checks for the presence of *Trichomonas vaginalis*, a microscopic parasite that can cause urinary or genital infections. It helps diagnose infections that may cause symptoms like itching, discharge, or discomfort.
["A simple urine test can help identify a parasite infection that may require treatment."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 43367-2
- Short code
- Trichomonas #/area UrnS LPF
- Synonyms
- Trichomonas #/area UrnS LPF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- microscopy-light-lpf
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like unusual discharge from the vagina or penis, itching, burning during urination, or pelvic pain. It’s also used in screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in certain high-risk groups, such as those with multiple sexual partners or symptoms of infection.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll likely provide a urine sample in a clinic, doctor’s office, or at home using a self-collection kit. Avoid urinating for about an hour before testing if instructed, as it may affect results.
How the Test Works
The test detects genetic material (DNA) from *Trichomonas vaginalis* using a molecular method, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This identifies the parasite even if symptoms are mild or absent.
Possible Results and Next Steps
A positive result means the parasite is present and likely requires treatment with an antibiotic (e.g., metronidazole or tinidazole). A negative result means the parasite was not detected in this sample, but symptoms could still be due to other causes or the infection may have cleared.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Trichomonas vaginalis is a common STI that can cause irritation, inflammation, and complications like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women. Untreated infections may also increase the risk of HIV transmission. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent spread and complications.
Short name
Trichomonas vaginalis Urine Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can I still have sex while waiting for results?
Are there any side effects from the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy