The signs and symptoms of trichomoniasis are similar to bacterial vaginosis, another common vaginal infection. Symptoms alone are not a basis for diagnosis.
| Not Infected (Normal) |
Trichomoniasis | Bacterial Vaginosis | Yeast Infection | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cause | None | Parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis | Overgrowth of bacteria | Fungus |
| Vaginal discharge | Clear, cloudy, white | Yellow/green, sometimes frothy, increased | White/grayish, milky, often increased | White, lumpy (like cottage cheese), sometimes redness |
| Vaginal irritation | None | Itching and redness may occur | Irritation | Itching, redness |
| Pain when urinating or having sexual intercourse | No | Possible | No | Yes |
| Vaginal odor | None | May be present (fishy) | Present (fishy) | None |
| Note: Symptoms may vary greatly among individuals. | ||||