Pinworms are white, parasitic worms that can live in the large intestine of humans. They are about one-half inch long. While the infected person sleeps, female pinworms leave the intestinal tract and lay their eggs on the skin around the anus.

Where do pinworms live naturally?

Pinworms usually occur in the large intestine but sometimes are found in the small intestine, the stomach, or farther up the gastrointestinal tract. After the eggs are fertilized by the male, the female travels to the anus, deposits the eggs on the skin near the anal opening, and usually dies.

Do pinworms live in dirt?

Pinworms, or Enterbiasis Vermicularis, are a parasite for which humans are the only host. This means you cannot get them from the dirt, your cat or your dog.