How can you differentiate between bacterial vaginosis and yeast infection. What are the main causes of yeast infections. How to prevent vaginal infections at home. What are the key symptoms of odorless yeast infections. When should you seek medical help for vaginal discomfort. How to maintain proper vaginal hygiene. What are the most effective treatments for yeast infections.

Understanding Vaginal Infections: Bacterial Vaginosis vs. Yeast Infections

Vaginal infections are a common concern for many women, with bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections being two of the most prevalent types. While both conditions can cause discomfort and irritation, they have distinct causes and symptoms. Understanding these differences is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Vaginitis, the medical term for inflammation of the vagina, affects most women at least once in their lifetime. It’s the most common gynecological diagnosis in clinical practice. Both BV and yeast infections fall under the umbrella of vaginitis, but they require different approaches to treatment.

Key Differences Between Bacterial Vaginosis and Yeast Infections

• Discharge: BV typically produces a thin, gray or white discharge, while yeast infections result in a thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge.
• Odor: BV often has a characteristic “fishy” smell, whereas yeast infections are usually odorless.
• Inflammation: Yeast infections commonly cause redness and swelling of the vulva, which is not typically seen in BV cases.
• Cause: BV results from an imbalance in vaginal bacteria, while yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of Candida fungus.

Can you have a yeast infection without noticeable symptoms? Yes, it’s possible to have an asymptomatic yeast infection. Some women may carry Candida without experiencing any discomfort, making regular check-ups with a healthcare provider important for maintaining vaginal health.

Causes and Risk Factors of Vaginal Infections

Understanding the underlying causes and risk factors of vaginal infections can help in prevention and early detection. Let’s explore the specific triggers for both BV and yeast infections.

Bacterial Vaginosis: Disrupting the Vaginal Flora

BV occurs when there’s an imbalance in the vaginal microbiome. Normally, Lactobacillus bacteria dominate the vaginal environment, helping to maintain a healthy pH level. When this balance is disrupted, harmful bacteria can proliferate, leading to BV.

What activities can increase the risk of developing bacterial vaginosis? Several factors can contribute to the development of BV:

• Vaginal douching
• Smoking
• Multiple sexual partners
• Unprotected sex
• Natural deficiency of Lactobacillus bacteria

Yeast Infections: When Candida Overgrows

Yeast infections, unlike BV, are caused by an overgrowth of Candida fungus. While small amounts of Candida are normally present in the vagina, certain conditions can lead to its excessive growth.

What factors contribute to the development of yeast infections? Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing a yeast infection:

• Use of hormonal contraceptives
• Pregnancy
• Recent antibiotic use
• Weakened immune system
• High sugar intake
• Tight, non-breathable clothing

Is it possible to have both BV and a yeast infection simultaneously? Yes, it is possible to have both infections at the same time. This situation, known as a mixed infection, can make diagnosis and treatment more challenging, often requiring professional medical assessment.

Diagnosing Vaginal Infections: Professional and At-Home Methods

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of vaginal infections. While professional medical assessment is the most reliable method, there are also some at-home techniques that can help identify the nature of the infection.

Professional Diagnostic Techniques

Healthcare providers use several methods to diagnose vaginal infections:

1. Medical history review: This includes discussing symptoms and potential risk factors.
2. Physical examination: The doctor examines the vaginal area for signs of infection and discharge.
3. Discharge sample analysis: A sample of vaginal discharge is examined under a microscope to identify the presence of harmful bacteria or fungi.
4. pH testing: A vaginal pH above 4.5 can indicate BV.
5. Fungal culture: This test can confirm the presence of Candida, although it’s worth noting that about 20% of healthy women may have Candida without symptoms.

At-Home Assessment

While professional diagnosis is always recommended, some signs can help you distinguish between BV and a yeast infection at home:

• Discharge consistency: Thin and watery for BV, thick and chunky for yeast infections.
• Odor: A fishy smell often indicates BV, while yeast infections are typically odorless.
• Itching and burning: More common and intense in yeast infections.
• Over-the-counter pH tests: These can help indicate if your vaginal pH is elevated, which may suggest BV.

How accurate are at-home pH tests for diagnosing vaginal infections? While at-home pH tests can provide useful information, they are not definitive. A high vaginal pH (above 4.5) can indicate BV, but it doesn’t rule out other infections. These tests should be used as a preliminary tool, with professional medical advice sought for a definitive diagnosis.

The Phenomenon of Odorless Yeast Infections

While a strong, unpleasant odor is often associated with vaginal infections, particularly BV, yeast infections can sometimes be odorless. This characteristic can make them more challenging to identify, especially for women who rely on smell as an indicator of vaginal health.

Why Some Yeast Infections Are Odorless

Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of Candida fungi, which typically don’t produce a strong odor. The absence of smell is due to the nature of the infection itself, rather than indicating a less severe condition.

Do all yeast infections lack odor? Not necessarily. While many yeast infections are odorless, some women may notice a subtle, bread-like or beer-like smell. This is different from the strong, fishy odor associated with BV.

Identifying Odorless Yeast Infections

Without a noticeable odor, other symptoms become more important in identifying a yeast infection:

• Thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge
• Intense itching and burning sensation in the vaginal area
• Redness and swelling of the vulva
• Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse
• A burning sensation when urinating

Can the absence of odor indicate a mild yeast infection? Not necessarily. The severity of a yeast infection is not determined by the presence or absence of odor, but rather by the intensity of other symptoms and the extent of the Candida overgrowth.

Prevention Strategies for Vaginal Infections

While it’s not always possible to prevent vaginal infections entirely, several strategies can significantly reduce the risk of developing BV or yeast infections. Maintaining good vaginal health is key to preventing these uncomfortable conditions.

General Prevention Tips

• Avoid douching: This practice can disrupt the natural balance of vaginal flora.
• Practice proper wiping technique: Always wipe from front to back after using the bathroom to prevent the spread of bacteria from the anus to the vagina.
• Wear breathable underwear: Choose cotton or other natural, breathable fabrics to allow air circulation and reduce moisture buildup.
• Avoid hot baths and hot tubs: Opt for showers or warm (not hot) baths to prevent creating an environment conducive to yeast growth.
• Dry thoroughly after washing: Gently pat the vaginal area dry to prevent excess moisture.
• Avoid irritants: Stay away from harsh soaps, scented products, and tight-fitting synthetic clothing.

Lifestyle Modifications for Prevention

Beyond basic hygiene practices, certain lifestyle changes can help maintain vaginal health:

• Maintain a balanced diet: A diet rich in probiotics and low in sugar can help prevent yeast overgrowth.
• Manage stress: High stress levels can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections.
• Practice safe sex: Use condoms to reduce the risk of introducing new bacteria or fungi to the vaginal environment.
• Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use: While antibiotics are sometimes necessary, overuse can disrupt the vaginal flora.

How effective are probiotic supplements in preventing vaginal infections? While research is ongoing, some studies suggest that probiotic supplements, particularly those containing Lactobacillus strains, may help prevent recurrent vaginal infections. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Treatment Options for Yeast Infections

When it comes to treating yeast infections, several options are available, ranging from over-the-counter medications to prescription treatments. The choice of treatment often depends on the severity of the infection and individual factors.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

For mild to moderate yeast infections, over-the-counter antifungal medications are often effective:

• Miconazole (Monistat)
• Clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin)
• Tioconazole (Vagistat)

These medications come in various forms, including creams, suppositories, and tablets, and are typically used for 1 to 7 days.

Prescription Treatments

For more severe or recurrent infections, a healthcare provider may prescribe:

• Fluconazole (Diflucan): An oral antifungal medication
• Terconazole: A prescription-strength vaginal cream or suppository
• Boric acid suppositories: For resistant yeast infections

Natural Remedies

While scientific evidence is limited, some women find relief with natural remedies:

• Yogurt or probiotic supplements
• Tea tree oil (diluted)
• Garlic
• Apple cider vinegar baths

How long does it typically take for yeast infection treatments to work? Most women experience relief from symptoms within a few days of starting treatment. However, it’s important to complete the full course of medication as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully cleared. If symptoms persist after completing treatment, consult a healthcare provider.

When to Seek Medical Help for Vaginal Discomfort

While many vaginal infections can be treated effectively at home, there are situations where professional medical advice is necessary. Recognizing when to seek help is crucial for maintaining vaginal health and preventing complications.

Signs That Warrant Medical Attention

• Persistent symptoms: If symptoms don’t improve after completing over-the-counter treatment
• Recurrent infections: Four or more yeast infections in a year
• Unusual symptoms: Fever, severe pain, or unusual discharge
• Pregnancy: Pregnant women should always consult a healthcare provider before treating vaginal infections
• Uncertain diagnosis: If you’re unsure whether you have BV, a yeast infection, or another condition
• First-time infection: If you’ve never had a yeast infection before
• Diabetes or weakened immune system: These conditions can complicate vaginal infections

What to Expect During a Medical Consultation

When you visit a healthcare provider for vaginal discomfort, you can expect:

1. A detailed discussion of your symptoms and medical history
2. A physical examination of the vaginal area
3. Possible sample collection for laboratory testing
4. Discussion of treatment options based on the diagnosis
5. Advice on prevention and future care

Can recurrent yeast infections indicate a more serious underlying condition? In some cases, yes. Frequent yeast infections can be a sign of diabetes, HIV, or other conditions that affect the immune system. If you’re experiencing recurrent infections, it’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying health issues.

Vaginal health is an important aspect of overall well-being. By understanding the differences between common vaginal infections, recognizing symptoms, and knowing when to seek medical help, women can take proactive steps to maintain their vaginal health. Remember, while home remedies and over-the-counter treatments can be effective for mild cases, persistent or severe symptoms always warrant professional medical attention. Regular check-ups and open communication with healthcare providers are key to ensuring optimal vaginal and reproductive health.

Bacterial vaginosis vs. yeast infection: How to tell

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and vaginal yeast infections can both cause pain and discomfort, difficulty urinating, and itching. Other symptoms, such as vaginal discharge, may differ. Treatment will depend on which infection a person has.

A yeast infection and BV are both infections that cause vaginitis.

Vaginitis is the medical term for inflammation of the vagina. It can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, including:

• itching
• pain
• burning
• changes in vaginal discharge
• a foul-smelling odor

Most females have at least one episode of vaginitis in their lifetimes; it is the most common gynecologic diagnosis in a doctor’s practice.

Below, we describe the differences between BV and a yeast infection. In particular, we explore the symptoms of both issues and the steps a person can take to prevent them.

Share on PinterestInflammation of the vagina is an effect of both BV and yeast infections.
Image credit: Joe Raedle/Getty Images

BV and yeast infections have different causes and risk factors, but both cause inflammation of the vagina — vaginitis. In fact, these infections are two of the most common causes of vaginitis.

When a doctor diagnoses a cause of vaginitis, the cause is:

• BV in around 40–50% of cases
• a yeast infection in 20–25% of cases
• trichomoniasis in 15–20% of cases
• not an infection in the remaining 5–10% of cases

It can sometimes be hard to tell whether a person has BV or a yeast infection, but there are some characteristic signs.

Below, find similarities and differences in the symptoms of BV and a yeast infection:

BV causes

“Vaginal flora” collectively refers to the bacteria that live in the vagina.

Usually, among the vaginal flora, there is more of a type of helpful bacteria, called Lactobacillus, than harmful bacteria.

Certain activities can disrupt the natural balance of the microorganisms in the vagina, and this disruption leads to BV.

Risk factors for BV include:

• vaginal douching
• smoking
• having new or multiple sexual partners
• having sex without a condom
• a natural lack of Lactobacillus bacteria

Yeast infection causes

Bacteria do not cause vaginal yeast infections. Instead, the cause is usually a type of fungus, or yeast, called Candida.

Candida can be naturally present in the vaginal area, but Lactobacillus bacteria usually restrict the growth of Candida.

However, in some situations, Candida multiplies unchecked, leading to a yeast infection.

Risk factors for a yeast infection include:

• using hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills
• being pregnant
• having recently taken antibiotics
• having a weakened immune system

To determine whether a vaginal infection is BV or a yeast infection, a doctor may:

• Ask about the person’s medical history, including previous vaginal infections, which may have been sexually transmitted.
• Perform an examinationto look for signs of infection and vaginal discharge.
• Take a sample of the discharge for analysis, to see whether an overgrowth of harmful bacteria or fungi is present.
• Test the pH of the vagina, as a pH of 4.5 or above can indicate BV.

Around 20% of healthy females tend to have Candida in their vaginas, so a positive fungal culture does not necessarily indicate that the fungus is responsible for any symptoms.

It is not always possible to prevent BV or a yeast infection. However, doing the following can reduce the risk:

• Not douching. Douching can upset the natural balance of organisms in the vagina, increasing the risk of infection.
• Wiping from front to back. Wiping from front to back after using the bathroom helps prevent harmful bacteria from entering the vagina.
• Wearing cotton underwear. Cotton allows air to flow to the vagina and keeps moisture from collecting and creating an environment in which yeast thrives.
• Avoiding hot baths and hot tubs. Instead, a person could soak in a warm bath or take a shower.
• Drying thoroughly after washing. Rubbing the genitals can cause or worsen irritation, so a person should gently pat the area dry instead.
• Staying away from irritants. Avoiding harsh or scented soap products can help prevent or ease irritation.

BV and a yeast infection can cause similar symptoms, though there are telltale differences.

Different issues cause the two infections, so they require different treatments.

BV results from an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the vagina, while an overgrowth of Candida fungus causes a yeast infection.

Both infections cause changes in vaginal discharge. BV causes thin discharge with a fishy odor, while a yeast infection causes discharge that is thick and odorless.

Doctors typically recommend antibiotic medications to treat BV and antifungal medications to treat yeast infections. Also, over-the-counter tablets, creams, ointments, and suppositories are available to treat mild to moderate yeast infections.

Bacterial Vaginosis vs Yeast Infection: What’s the Difference?

Vaginas do a lot of great things: They aid in pleasurable sex life, help bring new humans into the world, and self-clean with a natural balance of microorganisms. 

But there can be downsides to having a vagina, including the risk of an infection of the vagina. Examples of such infections are bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections. Though these two vaginal infections are different, they share similar symptoms, so it can be tough to tell them apart.

In fact, the imbalance between the normal bacteria flora and yeast is a major cause of vaginitis, an inflammation of the vagina. To help you out, in this article, I’ll explain the symptoms, causes, similarities, differences, and treatments of bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections, as well as how to prevent both. 

Differences Between BV vs Yeast Infection

Bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections are two different (and curable) common types of vaginal infections. They are forms of vaginitis caused by the overgrowth of normal microorganisms that are present in the vaginal area..

Bacterial vaginosis is caused by an overgrowth of a bacteria called gardnerella vaginalise in the vaginal area, which disrupts the natural pH levels, while yeast infections are caused by the overgrowth of candida fungus in the vagina.

The major difference between BV and yeast infections is the specific microbe that causes them: BV is a bacterial infection, while a yeast infection is a fungal infection. While both types of infection can cause burning with urination in some cases, these are not urinary tract infections, but infections of the vagina.

Neither one of these conditions is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), having BV can increase a person’s chances of getting STDs. Both types of vaginitis are more common in sexually active people. 

Yeast infection vs. bacterial vaginosis 

Bacterial Vaginosis	Yeast Infection
Caused by an overgrowth of the bacteria Gardnerella vaginalis	Caused by an overgrowth of a type of fungus called Candida Albicans
May cause a burning sensation when urinating.	Often causes a burning sensation while urinating or during sexual activity.
Causes thin white, yellow, or grey vaginal discharge and/or a fishy, unusual odor.	Causes white discharge that is often thick and clumpy.  May or may not cause a change in odor.
Does not typically cause redness or inflammation of the vaginal area.	Often causes redness, irritation, and inflammation of the vagina and surrounding genital area
Prescription antibiotics are used for treatment	Antifungal medications (OTC or prescription)  are used for medical treatment

Symptoms

These two conditions share many symptoms, but they also have some distinct differences. For example, both can cause abnormal discharge from the vagina, a change in odor, and irritation.

Even though symptoms of bacterial vaginosis are similar to those of yeast infection, pay close attention to the look and smell of vaginal discharge to help you distinguish between the two.  

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BV

Bacterial vaginosis can cause a couple of uncomfortable symptoms. BV symptoms include: 

• White, gray, or green vaginal discharge with a strong fish-like odor (the vaginal odor tends to be strongest after sex)
• Vaginal itching
• A stinging sensation with urination

Yeast infection

Symptoms of a yeast infection include: 

• Lumpy, white vaginal discharge (resembling cottage cheese) with no smell or minimal smell
• Whitish coating around the vaginal opening
• An itching or burning sensation around the vulva and vagina
• A stinging sensation while urinating
• Pain or discomfort during sex
• Redness or inflammation to the vaginal area.

Tips for identification

One easy way to distinguish between these two conditions is the smell or lack thereof. Discharge from BV has a distinctive fishy odor, while yeast infection discharge tends to be odorless.

BV discharge is also fairly thin, while yeast infection discharge has a thick consistency, often resembling cottage cheese.

How long does each infection typically last?

BV is unlikely to go away without the use of antibiotics, so always contact a medical provider. 

Mild yeast infections may go away on their own or with over-the-counter (OTC) medication after a few days. If a yeast infection persists or is getting progressively worse, seek medical advice. 

A prescription treatment can quickly clear up BV or a yeast infection within a week (though a yeast infection sometimes takes longer). You may feel better sooner, but complete the full course of treatment as directed by your provider to ensure the infection is gone.

Risks

There can be risks that accompany both bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections, especially if they’re left untreated or aren’t treated properly.

If the diagnosis is bacterial vaginosis and it’s left untreated, you may have an increased chance of contracting an STI. Bacterial Vaginosis can also pose a problem to pregnant women. Low birth weight and/or premature birth can be common in women who have BV and leave it untreated.

Sometimes, BV will go away on its own without any intervention. But waiting it out isn’t an advisable course of action due to the risks that can occur if left untreated. Consult with your medical provider about treatment and follow up if it’s not resolving after medication has been taken. 

If you’re diagnosed with BV on a regular basis, this can lead to additional infections if you acquire a sexually transmitted infection. 

Yeast infections, on the other hand, are typically easier to contract and have risks that are generally less severe, though they can cause significant discomfort. 

Diagnosis

To diagnose which condition you have and give you the best treatment, your provider will ask about your health history and current symptoms. 

If you’re seeing a provider in person, they may do a pelvic exam to look for signs of infection. They may also use a cotton swab to take a sample of your vaginal discharge. They’ll test this sample and look at it through the microscope or send it to a lab to confirm the diagnosis.

If you use telehealth, since you won’t have a physical exam, it helps to be as specific as possible about your symptoms. Try to share when they started, what they look and feel like, and how you’d rate your discomfort on a scale of 1 to 10. This helps you get a correct diagnosis.

Treatment Options

Medication can treat BV and yeast infections, though different treatments work for each. 

BV

The most common treatment for BV is a round of oral or vaginal prescription antibiotics. Metronidazole (Flagyl), clindamycin (Cleocin), and tinidazole (Tindamax) are three options frequently used for BV.

You need a prescription for these, which is why you need to see a medical provider. Be sure to complete the full course of treatment to ensure the infection goes away.

Yeast infection

For a mild yeast infection, you can try an over-the-counter vaginal cream like miconazole (Monistat) to see if that clears things up.

If yeast infection symptoms persist, your healthcare provider may prescribe  oral medication, antifungal creams or ointment, or a vaginal suppository. 

Some studies  have shown that  boric acid suppositories, which are available over the counter, can help treat yeast infections and maintain a normal vaginal pH. Taking a probiotic supplement or eating foods that contain probiotics can help reduce infections as well.  Either way, you should start feeling better within a day or two and symptoms typically resolve within about a week.  If your vaginal symptoms have not improved after treatment or last longer than two weeks, speak with your healthcare provider. Can You Pass BV or a Yeast Infection to a Sexual Partner?

BV and yeast infections are easily confused for STIs, but neither is a sexually transmitted infection or sexually transmitted disease (STD). Still, it may be possible to transmit them to a sexual partner via sexual contact during vaginal, oral, or anal sexual activity.  

Can You Pass BV or a Yeast Infection to a Sexual Partner?

BV and yeast infections are easily confused for STIs, but neither is a sexually transmitted infection or sexually transmitted disease (STD).

Still, it may be possible to transmit them to a sexual partner via sexual contact during vaginal, oral, or anal sexual activity. 

BV

People with vaginas are the only ones who can get bacterial vaginosis, so this infection may be passed between two sex partners with vaginas.

BV affects an estimated 21.2 million people with vaginas in the United States between the ages of 14-49, according to CDC.

And because pregnant people have an increased risk of this vaginal issue, it is one of the common reasons people visit their OB-GYN.

People with penises cannot show symptoms of BV and do not require treatment, but it is unclear if they can spread the infection. 

Yeast infections

A male sex partner may get yeast infections through sex.

Around 15% of the time a person with a penis has unprotected sex with someone who has a yeast infection, a rash will show up on their penis a few days later.

This happens in rare cases, but if it happens, be sure to seek medical attention from a doctor. 

Prevention Tips

Vaginal conditions are complex and caused by multiple factors, so there is no one foolproof way to prevent them. Instead, a mix of habits may lessen your likelihood of an infection or a recurrence. 

• Use mild, unscented soaps and avoid any products with harsh chemicals or scents (including scented tampons).
• Avoid douching or any internal cleansing
• Wear breathable, natural underwear (cotton is a good choice) and change it regularly.
• Clean your sex toys after each use.

Outlook for Each Infection

Thankfully, both BV and yeast infections are easy to treat, and the vast majority of cases resolve in just a few days after treatment. If your symptoms do not improve, you could have a different condition.

Contact your medical provider, who may try another treatment or do further testing.

Pregnant people with BV often require urgent medical care.

This is because BV doesn’t only cause inflammation of the vagina, but it can also cause inflammation of the fetal membranes. Research indicates that this can lead to preterm birth. 

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When to See a Doctor or Healthcare Provider

If any symptoms of BV or a yeast infection last longer than a few days, or if they impact your quality of life, talk to a medical provider. BV and yeast infections are some of the most common vaginal conditions faced by those with vaginas, and your provider will know how to distinguish between them, and can order appropriate testing.

Get Treatment for Yeast Infection or BV Today with K Health

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Check your symptoms, explore conditions and treatments, and if needed, text with a healthcare provider in minutes. 

K Health’s AI-powered app is based on 20 years of clinical data.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is bacterial vaginosis a yeast infection?

No. Although they share similar symptoms, bacterial vaginosis and a yeast infection are two different infections caused by different microbes in the vaginal area.

Is a yeast infection fungal or bacterial?

A yeast infection is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of the candida fungus. It can be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription antifungal creams.

Can a yeast infection cause a bacterial infection?

No. A yeast infection is caused by a fungus (candida) and cannot cause a bacterial infection.

Are BV and yeast infections treated the same way?

No. Bacterial vaginosis is a bacterial infection that is treated with antibiotics. A yeast infection is a fungal infection that is treated with antifungal medication. This is why it’s so important to know the difference between the two so you can use the correct treatment.

K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.

K Health has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions,
and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references.

• Association between preterm delivery and bacterial vaginosis with or without treatment. (2019).
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6345902/

• Bacterial vaginosis – CDC Basic Factsheet. (2022).
  https://www.cdc.gov/std/bv/stdfact-bacterial-vaginosis.htm

• Bacterial vaginosis (BV) statistics. (2020).
  https://www.cdc.gov/std/bv/stats.htm

• Vaginal Yeast Infections. (2019).
  https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/vaginal-yeast-infections

• What Is Bacterial Vaginosis? (n.d.).
  https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/vaginitis/what-bacterial-vaginosis

• What Is a Yeast Infection? (n. d.).
  https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/vaginitis/what-yeast-infection

Vaginitis – symptoms, causes, treatment in St. Petersburg

Vaginitis refers to inflammation of the vagina. It is a common gynecological problem found in women of all ages, with one-third of women having at least one form of vaginitis at some point in their lives.

The vagina is the muscular passage between the uterus and the external genital area. When an inflammatory agent affects the walls of the vagina, they become inflamed and vaginitis can occur.

Orthopedist

Online appointment

Phones:

+7 (812) 30-888-03

+7 (812) 242-53-50 9000 3

Clinic address: St. Petersburg, Vyborgsky district , metro station Parnassus, st. Asafiev, 9, building 2, lit. A

Causes

Bacteria, yeast, viruses, chemicals in creams or sprays, or even clothes can cause illness. In addition, various factors affect the vaginal environment, including a woman’s general condition, her personal hygiene, medications, hormones (especially estrogen), and the health of her sexual partner. Violation of any of these factors can cause vaginitis.

The most common types of vaginitis:

• Candida or “yeast” infection
• bacterial vaginosis
• trichomoniasis

Also subtypes of vaginitis:

• chlamydial
• gonococcal
• viral
• non-infectious types of infection has its own causes and symptoms, which makes diagnosing quite difficult. In addition, more than one type of vaginitis may be present, with or without symptoms.

  Candida or “yeast” infections

  Yeast infections, as they are commonly called, are caused by one of the many types of fungi known as Candida that usually live in the vagina in small amounts. Candida can also be present in the mouth and digestive tract in both men and women.

  Because yeast is normally well balanced in the vagina, an infection occurs when something in the female system upsets this normal balance, such as an antibiotic taken to treat another infection. It kills the bacteria that normally protect and balance the yeast in the vagina, which causes an infection to develop. Other factors that can cause this imbalance include pregnancy, which changes hormone levels, and diabetes, which causes too much sugar in the urine and vagina.

  Symptoms

  The following are the most common symptoms of a Candida infection:

  • thick, white, curdled vaginal discharge/watery and odorless
  • itching and redness of the vulva and vagina

  Symptoms of a Can vaginal infection dida may be similar to other states or medical problems. Seek medical advice for a proper diagnosis.

  Who is at risk of infections?

  While any woman can develop a yeast infection, women are primarily at risk:

  • after a course of antibiotics
  • pregnant
  • if diabetic
  • if using immunosuppressants
  • if using high estrogen contraceptives
  • if you have thyroid or endocrine disorders
  • when taking a course of corticosteroids and weakening the immune system

  Diagnostics

  In addition to a complete medical history and a physical and pelvic examination, diagnostic procedures are performed: microscopic examination of vaginal discharge.

  Treatment

  The specific treatment for Candida will be determined by your physician based on:

  • your age, general health and medical history
  • the degree of disease
  • the type and severity of symptoms procedures or therapy

  Treatment may include:

  • antifungal, vaginal creams and suppositories
  • vaginal tablets
  • antibiotics

  Orthopedist

  Online appointment

  Phones:

  +7 (812) 30-888-03

  +7 (812) 242-53-50

  Address clinics: St. Petersburg, Vyborgsky district, metro station Parnassus, st. Asafiev, 9, building 2, lit. A

  Go to the list of articles

  why there are different smells from the vagina

  Have you ever found out that it is already one in the morning, and in front of you is the tenth page with the results of a search in Yandex for the query: “Why can a vagina smell?” ? It’s okay – this can happen to each of us.

  Tags:

  Health

  Women Health

  intimate health

  vagina

  Getty images

  Let’s start with the good news: almost certainly everything is in order. Clinical professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive sciences at the Yale School of Medicine, Dr. Mary Jane Minkin says that women at the reception are often embarrassed by an unpleasant smell, but she does not smell it. “There is a wide range of normality when it comes to these things,” she adds. Relax: most likely, you’re just exaggerating.

  Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

  However, some odors may be a reason to visit a doctor, especially if they are accompanied by a discharge other than normal. And here are some of them that can talk about something really serious.

  Rotten

  A strong rotten smell, most likely caused by a tampon that has been in the vagina for several days: the “aroma” is a mixture of clotted blood, bacteria and secretions that have accumulated inside you. Don’t beat yourself up for being forgetful – that happens to the best of us. What to do, tampons have become so convenient that it is very easy to forget about them. If you cannot pull it out yourself, contact a gynecologist.

  Fishy

  If you smell a strong fishy smell from your vagina, you most likely have bacterial vaginosis. This is an infectious non-inflammatory syndrome in which certain microorganisms grow and at the same time the number of lactic acid bacteria with protective properties decreases. The disease may be accompanied by whitish-gray discharge, burning during urination and itching.

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  But “fish” in combination with yellow or green discharge indicates that you have contracted trichomoniasis. It is characterized by itching in the vagina, burning during urination and pain during sex. It’s okay: you need to go to the gynecologist and get a prescription for antibiotics. Just don’t try to solve the problem yourself! Douching, for example, will only hurt by disturbing the pH level of the vagina.

  Bread

  Does your vagina smell like it’s infused with bread starter? Then, most likely, you have candidiasis, it is also called thrush or a yeast infection. Candidiasis begins when lubricants, spermicides, antibiotics, or even pregnancy trigger an increase in the number of Candida fungi that live inside us but are usually kept in check by the immune system.

  Other signs of thrush are burning, itching, swelling and white curdled discharge. But the good news is that a yeast infection is nothing to worry about. Just consult a doctor to confirm the diagnosis and buy the antifungal drugs prescribed by him. It will take quite a bit of time, and you will stop smelling of the brew.

  Strong bad odor

  If it smells neither fishy nor rotten and you can call it very, very unpleasant, take your temperature. If it is close to 38 degrees – urgently see a doctor! Most likely, you have pelvic inflammatory disease, and this is already serious. It usually happens when the bacteria that cause gonorrhea and chlamydia move further out of the vagina into and into the cervix.

  Cheesy

  This smell is less common, but some girls complain that the smell of their vagina is somewhat reminiscent of cheese. Jackie Walters, MD, OB/GYN, and author of Queen B: Everything You Need to Know About Sex, Intimacy, and Lower Tummy Health, explains that this effect is due to a combination of factors. For example, a combination of a yeast infection with lubricant, or the use of a condom during trichomoniasis can lead to a cheesy smell. But the conclusions are the same: you should see a doctor.

  Chlorine or bleach smell

  Let’s take a break and talk about weird smells that don’t really mean anything bad. The first is the smell of bleach or bleach. Unexpected, right? But this is a fairly common phenomenon: such an effect appears after using a flavored lubricant or a condom. There is no need to worry: the “special effect” will disappear by itself over time.

  Metallic

  If you feel it during menstruation, then everything is in order – this is how blood should smell, because it contains iron. This also happens after a gynecological examination or hurried sex, when you did not wait until the lubricant was released, and the lubricant was not at hand. But if the smell is combined with itching or strange discharge, then it is better to consult a doctor.

  Musk

  The smell of a healthy vagina can change depending on how much you sweat. Do not be afraid after an intense workout if the musk is felt stronger than usual: there are sweat glands in the anus and vulva area that secrete moisture. Take a shower – you don’t have to do anything else.

  Sweet smell

  You must have heard the advice to eat pineapple before oral sex (although it is more commonly given to men).