Bacterial Vaginosis vs. Yeast Infection: How to Tell the Difference

Vaginal symptoms have a way of showing up at the worst possible time, and when they do, it’s not always obvious what’s causing them. Is it a yeast infection? Bacterial vaginosis? Something else entirely? 

While these conditions are common, they’re often confused, and treating the wrong one can keep symptoms hanging around longer than necessary.

Instead of guessing, reach out to our team at Westover Hills Women's Health to get an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment.

In the meantime, read on as we explain the difference between these two conditions. 

What causes bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections?

Bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections are both infections, but one is bacterial, and the other is fungal.

Bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (sometimes just called BV) occurs when the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina is disrupted. Specifically, when the lactic-acid–producing Lactobacillus species in your vagina decrease and are replaced by anaerobic bacteria like G. vaginalis or A. vaginae, symptoms start to appear.

It’s not a sexually transmitted infection, but sexual activity, douching, or changes in vaginal pH can increase your risk.

Yeast infections

Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a type of fungus that naturally lives in the body. Antibiotics, hormonal changes, pregnancy, diabetes, and a weakened immune system can all trigger yeast overgrowth.

About 75% of women develop a yeast infection at least once in their lives, and as many as 8% have at least four infections per year.

How to tell the difference between these two infections

While symptoms of both conditions can overlap, there are a few telltale differences.

If you have bacterial vaginosis, you may notice:

• Thin, gray, or white discharge
• Strong fishy odor, often worse after sex
• Mild irritation or itching (but sometimes none at all)
• Little to no redness or swelling

On the other hand, yeast infections tend to cause:

• Thick, white discharge with a cottage cheese-like texture
• Intense itching or burning
• Redness, swelling, or soreness of the vulva
• Pain with urination or intercourse

Odor is a major clue: bacterial vaginosis usually has a noticeable odor, while yeast infections typically don’t.

Why self-diagnosing can be tricky

Many over-the-counter treatments are made for yeast infections, but they won’t help bacterial vaginosis. Using the wrong treatment can delay healing and even make symptoms worse. 

Because symptoms can overlap, testing is often the best way to know what’s really going on. Testing for bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections at Westover Hills Women’s Health is usually quick and straightforward. 

In most cases, we collect a vaginal swab during a pelvic exam to analyze your vaginal fluid. This allows the lab to identify bacterial imbalances or yeast overgrowth. 

Treating vaginal infections

Once we’ve confirmed whether you’re dealing with a bacterial or fungal infection, we get you started with the right treatment. Bacterial vaginosis, for example, is typically treated with prescription antibiotics, while yeast infections are treated with antifungal medications.

When to seek gynecological care for your symptoms

We know it’s not always easy to talk about symptoms like these, but our nonjudgmental team is here to help you get the relief you need.

You should schedule an appointment if:

• Symptoms are new, severe, or recurring
• You’re unsure which infection you have
• Over-the-counter treatments haven’t worked
• You’re pregnant or have other health conditions

Call or click today to schedule an appointment in one of our San Antonio, Texas, locations.