Exams and Tests

The diagnosis is made by directly observing the trichomonads through a microscope (they are too small to be seen by the naked eye).

• Trichomonads are pear-shaped and have several flagella (whiplike tails) at one end.
  
  
• This lab test is usually ordered only if the doctor suspects trichomoniasis as a possible diagnosis.
  
  
• In some cases, the doctor may have to send the sample to the laboratory, and the result may not come back right away.
  
  
• The doctor will collect the specimen during a pelvic examination.
  
  
  • The doctor inserts a speculum into the vagina and then uses a cotton-tipped applicator to collect a sample.
    
    
  • The sample is then placed onto a microscope slide and sent to the laboratory to be analyzed.
    
    
  • Trichomonads are seen rarely during urine testing.
  
  
• A diagnosis of trichomoniasis usually prompts a search for other sexually transmitted diseases, such as syphilis, HIV, gonorrhea, or chlamydia.