Yeast Infection vs Bacterial Vaginosis
Two of the most common types of vaginal infections frequently experienced by women are bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infection. While both can cause discomfort and hamper the quality of life, their causes and symptoms differ from one another. This article will focus on yeast vs BV infections and their effective treatment.
Difference between yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis
The cause of yeast infection is due to the overgrowth of the fungus Candida inside the vagina. On the other hand, bacterial vaginosis is caused due to a disruption in the balance of good and bad bacteria in the vagina.
While Gardnerella vaginalis bacteria is the root cause of bacterial vaginosis, several other types of bacteria can lead to such infections. The following highlights the main points encompassing bacterial vaginosis vs yeast infection.
What is yeast infection?
Yeast infection, also commonly referred to as vaginal candidiasis, is a type of fungal infection that is caused due to an overgrowth of the fungus Candida inside the vagina. Although Candida is a regular part of the vaginal microbiota, sometimes it might get out of control and lead to vaginal infection. This is one of the most common types of vaginal infections experienced by about 4 out of 5 women at some point in their life.
What is bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis is caused due to the disruption of the natural bacterial balance inside the vagina. This is also a type of vaginal inflammation where the overgrowth of harmful bacteria, especially Gardnerella vaginalis, causes discomfort and unfavourable discharge from the vagina.
Common symptoms between yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis
As both yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis cause vaginitis, a medical term used as a reference to vaginal inflammation, they result in unfavourable symptoms such as:
- Vaginal discharge
- Pain and itching in the vagina
- Burning sensation during urination or intercourse
- Discomfort in the vagina
Differences
Although some symptoms of bacterial vaginosis and yeast infection are similar, there are also differences which are mentioned below in detail:
- In the case of bacterial vaginosis, the colour of discharge is either yellow, white, greenish, or grey, and the consistency is thin. On the other hand, in yeast infection, the discharge is significantly white with a texture similar to that of cottage cheese
- In bacterial vaginosis, there may or may not be inflammation on the vulva or vaginal opening, which is more common in yeast infection
- A burning sensation or pain during intercourse can indicate yeast infection, as bacterial vaginosis is rather uncomfortable than painful
- There is no vaginal odour in yeast infection, unlike bacterial vaginosis
- Yeast infection can be easily determined by the consistency of discharge, which is typically like cottage cheese
Causes of yeast infection
The common risk factors concerning vaginal yeast infection include:
- Use of hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills
- Running on antibiotics
- Having a weak immune system
- Pregnancy
Causes of bacterial vaginosis
The common causes of bacterial vaginosis include:
- Vaginal douching
- Engaging in intercourse with a new sex partner
- Having sex without contraceptives
- Lacking lactobacillus bacteria naturally
- Smoking
Treatments For yeast infection
The standard yeast infection treatments include:
- Antifungal vaginal tablets, pessaries, or creams
- Prescribed oral medicines by the healthcare professional
- Probiotic supplements that contain lactobacillus bacteria
Treatments for bacterial vaginosis
The standard bacterial vaginosis treatments are mentioned below:
- Metronidazole: This antibiotic comes in the form of tablets that must be taken orally and in gel or cream form for application on the affected area.
- Clindamycin: Clindamycin is also commonly recommended by healthcare professionals and must be taken orally or applied as a cream on the infected area.
- Tinidazole: Tinidazole can only be taken orally and offers a faster healing solution than other treatments.
Conclusion
Never self diagnose or treat a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis. It is essential to seek medical attention to know the underlying cause and have it treated accordingly to avoid any future complications.
FAQs related to yeast infection vs bacterial vaginosis
1. Which is worse, bacterial vaginosis or yeast infection?
In general, yeast infections are considered to be less severe than that of bacterial vaginosis. This is because bacterial vaginosis can be more serious if left untreated and can increase the risk of contracting STIs such as HIV.
2. What is the reason behind getting a yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis simultaneously?
Several factors can contribute to a person experiencing both BV and yeast infections. One possible explanation is that an individual’s vaginal microbiota may be out of balance, making them more susceptible to both infections. For example, taking antibiotics for a bacterial infection can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the vagina, making it easier for Candida to grow and cause a yeast infection.
3. How to treat both yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis simultaneously?
To treat BV and yeast infection simultaneously, it is essential to seek medical attention. Bacterial vaginosis requires antibiotics for treatment, while yeast infection requires antifungal medications.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Book a consultation with Ova Singapore’s medical team to learn more about reproductive healthcare treatments here.