Women can acquire the disease from infected men or women, whereas men usually contract it only from infected women. Trichomoniasis is the most common curable STD in young, sexually active women. An estimated 5 million new cases occur each year in women and men. Most men with trichomoniasis do not have signs or symptoms. Men with symptoms may have an irritation inside the penis, mild discharge, or slight burning after urination or ejaculation.
Many women do have signs or symptoms of infection.
In these women, trichomoniasis causes a frothy, yellow-green vaginal discharge with a strong odor. The infection may also cause discomfort during intercourse and urination. Irritation and itching of the female genital area and, in rare cases, lower abdominal pain can also occur. Symptoms usually appear within 5 to 28 days of exposure in women. Trichomoniasis in pregnant women may cause premature rupture of the membranes and preterm delivery.