How Do I Know if I Have a Yeast Infection or Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)?

Female doctor giving advice to a female patient.
 

Dealing with vaginal infections can be quite a hassle, especially when you’re not sure which one you’re dealing with. That’s where the RepHreshing Truth comes in, here to answer the burning question: What is the difference between a vaginal yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis (BV)?

While both BV and yeast infections share symptoms like pain, discomfort, itching, and changes in discharge, they’re each unique in their own ways. Understanding these differences is key for effective treatment.

What is a Yeast Infection?

A yeast infection, also called vaginal candidiasis, is a fungal infection that causes irritation, discharge, and intense itchiness in the vagina and vulva areas. Over time, discomfort worsens, potentially leading to painful sexual activity and, in severe cases, sores.

Vaginal yeast infections happen when yeast, a fungus naturally present in the vagina, grows out of control. Normally, beneficial vaginal bacteria like Lactobacillus keep the balance in check, but when disrupted, yeast overgrows, causing infection.

Various factors can trigger yeast infections, including high blood sugar, antibiotics, birth control pills, hormone therapy and pregnancy.

What is Bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal infection, caused by an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. Normally, beneficial bacteria keep the balance in check, but when overwhelmed, BV emerges.

BV disrupts the vaginal pH balance. The bacteria responsible for the infection thrive in an elevated pH environment, whereas the beneficial bacteria prefer a healthy pH level.

Various activities can disturb the natural balance of vaginal microorganisms, leading to BV. Risk factors include smoking, having new or multiple sexual partners, engaging in unprotected sex, or naturally lacking Lactobacillus bacteria.

Differences Between Yeast Infections & BV Symptoms

Yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis (BV) present distinct sets of symptoms, although there can be some overlap. Yeast infections often manifest with a thick, white discharge that lacks odor, accompanied by burning, redness, and swelling in the vaginal area. Discomfort during urination and sex is common, along with the possibility of developing a rash on the vagina.

On the other hand, BV is characterized by excessive grayish-white vaginal discharge with a distinctive fishy odor, which may intensify after sexual activity. Some individuals describe the discharge as yogurt-like or pasty in consistency. Itching and redness are also typical symptoms associated with BV. These differences in discharge odor, consistency, and accompanying symptoms serve as crucial indicators for distinguishing between yeast infections and BV.

Can You Have a Yeast Infection & BV at the Same Time?

It is possible to have a yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis (BV) at the same time. Therefore, trying to diagnose yourself, especially if you suspect you have both conditions, isn't a good idea. It's important to seek professional medical help for vaginal infections. Your gynecologist or primary care physician can accurately diagnose your condition using methods like pH testing and microscopic examination of swabs.

Once the diagnosis is confirmed, your healthcare provider will recommend the appropriate treatment. BV typically requires antibiotics, while yeast infections are treated with antifungal medications. Using the wrong treatment can worsen symptoms, so it's important to receive an accurate diagnosis first. If you're experiencing symptoms of a vaginal infection, be sure to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider.

Importance of Vaginal pH & Beneficial Bacteria

An important part of keeping everything in balance is the vaginal pH. In healthy women, vaginal pH typically ranges from 3.5 to 4.5. When pH is out of balance, it can lead to various vaginal issues. Maintaining healthy pH levels helps beneficial bacteria to thrive so that they can do their job maintaining vaginal health.

Elevated pH creates an environment favorable to pathogenic bacteria, leading to unpleasant symptoms like vaginal odor, discomfort, and even infection. An elevated pH is one of the key factors doctors look for when diagnosing vaginal infections. Keeping a vaginal pH within the healthy range can help prevent these issues.

Several factors can elevate vaginal pH, including your period (blood pH is 7.4), sexual intercourse (semen pH is 7.1 to 8), and hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle.

RepHresh Products for Vaginal Health

Once you’ve recovered from an infection, it’s important to establish a good vaginal care routine by supporting a balance of beneficial bacteria and vaginal pH.

With the ease of use of RepHresh products, you can effortlessly incorporate them into your routine, empowering yourself to take control of your feminine hygiene.