Trichomoniasis results from infection with Trichomonas vaginalis , a flagellated protozoan.
Trichomonads are actively motile organisms.
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 .