Quick Answer

Trichomoniasis is caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, which spreads through unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex. The infection can also be passed from mother to baby during childbirth. It is not caused by poor hygiene or casual contact.

  • Trichomonas vaginalis is a single-celled parasite that infects the urogenital tract.
  • The parasite is transmitted almost exclusively through sexual contact with an infected partner.
  • Men often have no symptoms, but can still pass the infection to partners.
  • In women, the infection can cause a frothy, greenish-yellow discharge with a strong odor.
  • Trichomoniasis is curable with a single dose of oral metronidazole or tinidazole.
  • Untreated trichomoniasis increases the risk of HIV transmission and pregnancy complications.

Context Most Pages Skip

Trichomoniasis is the most common non-viral sexually transmitted infection worldwide, yet many people do not realize they have it. The cause is a microscopic parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis, which thrives in the warm, moist environment of the genital tract. Unlike bacterial STIs, trichomoniasis is caused by a protozoan, which means it requires a different class of medication to treat. Understanding the specific cause helps distinguish it from other infections that may produce similar symptoms, such as bacterial vaginosis or chlamydia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are causes of trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, which spreads through unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex. The infection can also be passed from mother to baby during childbirth. It is not caused by poor hygiene or casual contact.

What causes trich?

Trichomoniasis is caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, which spreads through unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex. The infection can also be passed from mother to baby during childbirth. It is not caused by poor hygiene or casual contact.

What sti causes green discharge?

Trichomoniasis is caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, which spreads through unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex. The infection can also be passed from mother to baby during childbirth. It is not caused by poor hygiene or casual contact.

What are the main causes of trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis is caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, which spreads through unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex. The infection can also be passed from mother to baby during childbirth. It is not caused by poor hygiene or casual contact.

What causes trichomoniasis in birds?

Trichomoniasis is caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, which spreads through unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex. The infection can also be passed from mother to baby during childbirth. It is not caused by poor hygiene or casual contact.

What causes trichomoniasis in cattle?

Trichomoniasis is caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, which spreads through unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex. The infection can also be passed from mother to baby during childbirth. It is not caused by poor hygiene or casual contact.

Related Questions

⚕️ This page is educational and does not replace advice from a licensed clinician. If you may have been exposed to an STI, get tested — most infections are manageable, and many are fully curable.

Sources & Further Reading

Figures reflect CDC surveillance and WHO estimates; they are population statistics, not personal risk predictions.