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Sexual health

Trichomonas test (NAAT)

Written by the Zenlo Health editorial teamUpdated 2026-10-14Education onlyHow we review
Short answerThe trichomonas test uses a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) to find the genetic material of Trichomonas vaginalis, a parasite that causes trichomoniasis. It is one of the most common curable sexually transmitted infections in the US, and many people have no symptoms.
Fasting and prep
Many labs ask you not to urinate for at least 1 hour before a urine sample. Follow the instructions on your lab order.
Turnaround
Usually 1 to 3 days.
Also called
trich test, trichomoniasis test, trichomonas vaginalis naat, trichomonas urine test

What it measures

NAAT detects small amounts of the parasite's genetic material in a vaginal swab, urine, or other sample, making it far more sensitive than looking under a microscope. Women may notice discharge, itching, or burning. Men rarely have symptoms but can still pass the infection on.

Who should consider it

  • Women with vaginal discharge, itching, or burning (see a clinician too)
  • Women living with HIV, every year, per CDC
  • Anyone whose partner was diagnosed with trichomoniasis
  • People with a new partner or more than one partner

How to read your result

  • Detected means you have trichomoniasis.
  • Not detected means no sign of the parasite in that sample.
  • Urine tests in men may miss some infections, so a negative result with ongoing symptoms deserves a clinician visit.
  • The CDC advises women to retest about 3 months after treatment, because reinfection is common.

Reference ranges differ between labs. Use the range printed on your own report.

What to do next

Trichomoniasis is cured with a short course of antibiotic medicine. Partners need treatment at the same time to prevent passing it back and forth. Avoid sex until you and your partners finish treatment and symptoms go away. Many health departments offer free testing and treatment.

Where to order Trichomonas test

These sellers include an independent physician order. You pay online and visit a partner lab. Availability, price, and lab network vary, so confirm at checkout.

Private MD Labs

Online lab seller
Quest or LabcorpPay per testPay after results
Order
Every order reviewed by a physician. Says you pay $1 to start and the rest after results.
Results
Secure online portal with plain-English explanations. Says many results arrive overnight.

HealthLabs

Online lab seller
Quest or LabcorpPay per test
Order
Online or by phone. No doctor referral or insurance needed.
Results
Secure HealthLabs account. Says 1 to 3 business days.

Walk-In Lab

Online lab seller
Lab not namedPay per test
Order
Online, no insurance or doctor order needed. Shows a $6 physician fee per order on popular tests.
Results
Online account. Turnaround not stated on its homepage.

Quest Health

Lab-run
QuestPay per testAt-home optionResults in lab account
Order
Buy online and book a Quest appointment. An independent provider is involved.
Results
Online as soon as ready, with an email alert. Provider discussion included at no extra cost.

Seller details come from each seller's own site and can change. Confirm price, lab location, and state availability at checkout.

Ordering several tests? Plan them together · Filter all sellers

Questions people ask

Can I have trichomoniasis without symptoms?

Yes. Most people with trichomoniasis have no symptoms, especially men, which is why testing helps.

Is trichomoniasis curable?

Yes. A course of metronidazole or a similar medicine cures most infections. Avoid alcohol if your clinician advises it while you take the medicine.

Does a standard STD panel include trichomonas?

Many basic panels leave it out. Check the list of tests before you buy, or add it separately.

Can I order a trichomonas test without a doctor?

Yes. Online sellers include a physician order and a lab visit for the urine sample.

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