TrichomoniasisMedical Author:
Andrew K Chang, MD
Medical Medical Editor:
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical EditorMelissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.
Trichomoniasis OverviewTrichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (or sexually-transmitted disease, STD) caused by a protozoan (a microscopic parasite), usually found in the vagina and urethral tissues. Although this condition is most often treated in women, men can also be infected (and often have no symptoms). Viewer Comments & ReviewsTrichomoniasis - TreatmentThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:What treatment was effective for your trichomoniasis? |
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Trichomoniasis
Topic Overview
What is trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis is an infection with a one-cell parasite spread by sexual contact (sexually transmitted disease, or STD). It is sometimes called a Trichomonas infection or trich (say "trick").
Both men and women can get a trich infection, but it is more common in women. Trich in pregnant women can cause problems with the pregnancy.
What causes trich?
Trich is caused by a one-cell parasite.
- In women, the parasite usually infects the vagina, urethra, cervix, bladder, and glands in the genital area. See a picture of the female reproductive system.
- In men, the parasite infects the urethra or under the foreskin of the penis if it is not circumcised. See a picture of the male reproductive system.
What are the symptoms?
Many women and most men do not have any symptoms of trich. But when you do have symptoms, they usually start within 1 week after you were infected.
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Trichomoniasis »
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the protozoa Trichomonas vaginalis.
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