Bacterial Vaginosis or Yeast Infection? How to Tell the Difference

Understanding Bacterial Vaginosis and Yeast Infections

Vaginal infections affect women of all ages and can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms. Two of the most common types of vaginal infections are bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections. While both cause irritation, itching, and discharge, there are important differences between BV and yeast infections.

This article provides an in-depth look at the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. Read on to learn how to identify each condition and steps you can take to find relief.

What is Bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis is a type of vaginal inflammation caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. It is the most common vaginal infection in women ages 15 to 44.

When bacteria levels become imbalanced, harmful bacteria outnumber healthy bacteria and create infection. Some of the bacteria frequently associated with BV include:

• Gardnerella vaginalis
• Bacteroides
• Mobiluncus

While the exact cause is unknown, certain factors increase a woman's risk of developing BV:

• Multiple or new sexual partners
• Douching
• Using an intrauterine device (IUD)
• Smoking

BV is not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI). However, it does increase the spread of STIs because it causes changes in vaginal fluid and raises vaginal pH.

Signs and Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis

Unfortunately, half of women with bacterial vaginosis experience no symptoms. When present, the most common signs of BV include:

• Thin gray, white, or green vaginal discharge
• Fishy odor, especially after sex
• Burning sensation when urinating
• Itching around the outside of the vagina

Symptoms tend to worsen after unprotected sex. Some women also report a strong vaginal odor.

Getting Tested for Bacterial Vaginosis

Testing is the only way to confirm a BV infection. Your doctor can examine vaginal secretions under a microscope to look for clue cells, discharge pH, and specific bacteria.

A sample of discharge may also be sent for further lab testing. Its important to rule out other infections like trichomoniasis and chlamydia that cause similar symptoms.

If you think you may have bacterial vaginosis, schedule an appointment with your gynecologist or womens health nurse practitioner right away. Prompt antibiotic treatment can help prevent complications.

Treating and Preventing Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is treatable with prescription antibiotics, usually metronidazole or clindamycin. Treatment is taken by pill or cream for 4-7 days. Some BV medications are okay to take during pregnancy, but always check with your doctor first.

Its also important to finish the entire course of antibiotics to ensure the infection clears completely. Make sure to abstain from sex during treatment to avoid spreading the infection.

To help restore healthy vaginal bacteria after antibiotics, eat probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods. You can also take daily probiotic supplements.

To reduce future BV recurrences:

• Wear cotton underwear and avoid tight pants
• Dont use scented feminine hygiene products
• Urinate before and after sex
• Limit your number of sexual partners
• Avoid douching

What is a Yeast Infection?

A yeast infection results from an overgrowth of Candida yeast in the vagina. Candida is a fungus naturally found on the skin and inside the body in small amounts.

When something disrupts the healthy genital bacteria, yeast can rapidly grow and take over. Up to 75% of women will get a yeast infection at some point.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can set the stage for a vaginal yeast overgrowth:

• Antibiotics kill good bacteria
• Hormonal changes during pregnancy
• Birth control pills
• Weakened immune system
• Diabetes
• Damp underwear
• Poor eating habits

While yeast infections are not considered STIs, having a new sexual partner or multiple partners may increase risk. The exact cause is often unknown.

Signs and Symptoms of Yeast Infections

Characteristic yeast infection symptoms include:

• Vaginal itching and swelling
• Burning with urination
• Irritation and redness
• Pain with intercourse
• Thick cottage cheese-like discharge
• Rash or redness

Symptoms are usually worse the week before a menstrual period. A yeasty odor may also develop.

Getting a Yeast Infection Diagnosis

To confirm its a yeast infection, your doctor will perform a pelvic exam and take a vaginal sample. Under the microscope, yeast cells are visible.

Its important to see your doctor to rule out other causes like bacterial vaginosis or an STD. Home yeast infection tests are not always accurate.

Treating a Yeast Infection

Yeast infections can be cured within 1 to 2 weeks using antifungal medications such as:

• Fluconazole (Diflucan)
• Clotrimazole
• Miconazole
• Tioconazole

These are available as creams, ointments, pills, and suppositories. Its important to use the full course of treatment, even if symptoms resolve earlier.

Over-the-counter antifungal creams may also provide symptom relief. Make sure to follow directions closely. If symptoms persist, see your doctor.

Preventing Future Yeast Infections

You can lower your chances of another yeast infection by:

• Avoiding scented products
• Wearing cotton underwear
• Not using antibiotics unnecessarily
• Eating yogurt with live cultures
• Taking probiotic supplements
• Boosting immunity with vitamins
• Losing weight if overweight
• Controlling diabetes
• Avoiding hot tubs

Key Differences Between Bacterial Vaginosis and Yeast Infections

Now that you know the basics of BV and yeast infections separately, lets compare some of the most important distinguishing features:

Color and Consistency of Discharge

• BV: Thin, gray, white, or green discharge
• Yeast: Thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge

Smell

• BV: Fishy odor, especially after intercourse
• Yeast: Possible bread or yeast-like smell

Cause

• BV: Bacterial imbalance from multiple strains
• Yeast: Overgrowth of Candida yeast

Risk Factors

• BV: New or multiple sex partners, douching, IUDs
• Yeast: Antibiotics, diabetes, hormonal changes

Testing

• BV: Microscope exam and lab culture
• Yeast: Visual exam for yeast under microscope

Treatment

• BV: Antibiotics
• Yeast: Antifungal creams or supplements

Prevention

• BV: Avoid douching, limit partners, wear cotton underwear
• Yeast: Probiotics, vitamins, yogurt, cotton underwear

When to See Your Doctor

It's important to get an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment to find relief from vaginal infection symptoms. Make an appointment with your gynecologist or womens health nurse practitioner if you experience any of the following:

• Unusual vaginal discharge or odor
• Burning during urination
• Itching, swelling, irritation, or redness
• Sores or rash near vagina
• Discomfort during sex
• Lower abdominal pain

Recurring infections should also prompt a visit to the doctor. Yeast infections that occur more than twice in 6 months may indicate an underlying health issue.

Likewise, having 4 or more BV infections in one year is considered recurrent or chronic BV. This requires further treatment to prevent complications like pelvic inflammatory disease.

The Bottom Line

BV and yeast infections share some common symptoms but have important differences. Bacterial vaginosis stems from overgrowth of harmful bacteria while yeast infections result from an overabundance of vaginal yeast.

Proper diagnosis, treatment, and prevention are key to resolving symptoms and avoiding recurring issues. Pay attention to your body and always discuss stubborn vaginal health problems with your OB/GYN.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.