T vaginalis has been isolated from the vagina, cervix, urethra, bladder, and Skene and Bartholin glands in women. It also has been isolated from the anterior urethra, external genitalia, prostate, epididymis, and semen in men. Nonvenereal transmission is unusual, but possible, since trichomonads may survive for hours in moist environments. Trichomoniasis also may be transmitted during childbirth. For morbidity, see Complications .
Most women present with a malodorous yellow vaginal discharge, vaginal soreness, and vulvar itching.
Asymptomatic infection also is common. The clinical history for men infected with trichomonads is unclear. The discharge may be so scant that it is noted only in the morning. Most sexual contacts of infected women are asymptomatic. The incubation period tends to be 5-10 days but may be as brief as 1 day or as long as 28 days.