Quick Answer

Yes, trichomonas (trichomoniasis) is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. It is spread through vaginal, oral, or anal sex and is curable with prescription antibiotics like metronidazole or tinidazole.

  • Caused by a parasite, not a bacterium or virus.
  • Common symptom in women is frothy, yellow-green vaginal discharge.
  • Many infected people have no symptoms at all.
  • Increases risk of HIV transmission if exposed.
  • Can be diagnosed with a lab test of a swab or urine sample.
  • Treatment requires all sexual partners to take antibiotics to avoid reinfection.

Context Most Pages Skip

Many people wonder whether trichomoniasis is an STD because its symptoms can mimic other infections. The answer is straightforward: Trichomonas vaginalis is a parasite that passes almost exclusively through sexual contact, making it a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Unlike some STIs that have no cure, trichomoniasis is completely treatable with specific antibiotics. Understanding the cause and how it differs from other conditions is key to getting the right diagnosis and avoiding complications.

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.