A microscopic parasite known as Trichomonas Vaginalis is the cause of this infection.

This microorganism is transmitted through vaginal sex, of course if it is not protected and it can be spread through sexual toys, which are used by more persons. It is not transmitted via oral sex but it does not mean that you must not protect yourself if this is what you want.

Other factors also should be taken into consideration. Since the parasite can survive for sometime outside its natural environment, infection could also be brought about by handling or using infected underwear.

Girls should take precaution when borrowing personal garments such as bathing suits or underpants as they could get infected if the owner of these things is infected. Using other people's towel, especially for drying the genital area could really be a big risk. It would be much more preferable to be cautious than to acquire the disease and have it treated afterwards.

A mother can also transfer the disease to her baby, if it is a girl.

For men, the disease does not produce symptoms most of the time. Thus, it can go on unnoticed. However, this is not a good thing since this could lead to a recurring infection unless treated.

Trichomonas Vaginalis is a parasite, not a microbe or a virus, thus it is not capable of living long outside its natural environment. It could only exist outside the body for an hour or two. In fact, there is a remote possibility of contracting the disease from public bathrooms at hostels as most people are already conscious of this possibility.

The vagina is the preferred site of the parasite because of the wet environment. For women, the period between menstruations produces abundant secretion and therefore presents more opportunity for the parasite to develop. Additionally, there are other microbes that are normally found there,

Minor traumas can occur during the sexual intercourse. This may result in the development of small lesions which is not felt and noticed. Despite the fact that the men's urethra is not a site where the parasite can develop, they can also exist there.

Now, you already have a better understanding of the disease and its varying effect on men and women. The disease can infect young women, especially at the start of their sexual life. If the infection happens, there will be a noticeable profuse white or greenish vaginal discharge with a very unpleasant odour. There will be a slight burning sensation, pain and itching with the development of red patches between the legs. Pain will be felt during sex, so you would prefer not to have it. Additionally, it's possible to develop another complication, called inguinal adenopathy.