The vagina boasts a delicate balance of vaginal flora (bacteria) and natural yeast. But, sometimes, the balance is disrupted and vaginitis occurs.
Yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis (BV) are both common types of vaginitis. These conditions are not considered serious in most cases.
Quick FAQs
The symptoms of bacterial vaginosis include an unpleasant smelling discharge, a discharge that's white in color, and a swollen vagina.
Some of the symptoms of a yeast infection include vaginal sores, painful urination, and painful intercourse.
Bacterial vaginosis is treated with antibiotics, while a yeast infection is treated with antifungal medication.
While BV and yeast infections have similar symptoms, the two conditions are actually quite different. Here’s a closer look at bacterial vaginosis vs yeast infection, the causes of both, and typical treatments for each condition.
Vaginitis is a diagnosis used in medicine for vaginal inflammation. While several conditions can cause inflammation of the vagina, BV and yeast infections are the two most common. Studies show:
40 to 50 percent of vaginitis cases are BV
20 to 25 percent of vaginitis cases are vulvovaginal candidiasis (yeast infection)
Bacterial vaginosis is a vaginal bacteria infection that stems from an overgrowth of different types of bacteria. Gardnerella vaginalis is the most common. By contrast, a yeast infection is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida-type fungus.
Both BV and yeast infection can cause symptoms like itching, burning, and unusual discharge. However, there are telltale differences between the two types of vaginitis to know in terms of symptoms and treatment.
Bacterial Vaginosis Symptoms
BV is less likely to cause noticeable symptoms than a yeast infection, even though symptoms are still common.
Only around half of women who have a vaginal bacteria infection actually notice their symptoms. Symptoms of BV can include:
A thin-consistency discharge that can be grayish or white
Discharge smells highly unpleasant, often described as "fishy"
Odors may worsen after sex or while menstruating
Itching or burning around the vagina
The vagina may appear swollen and red
Discomfort during urination
Yeast Infection Symptoms
Yeast infection symptoms tend to be highly noticeable, but the infection may be mild enough that symptoms are subtle.
For all types of vaginitis, there are steps that can be taken to lower your risks, such as:
Avoiding douche, scented soaps, and scented skin or feminine products
Always wipe from the front to the rear during bathroom visits
Avoiding long bath soaks or long hot tub soaks
Always change out of damp or wet clothing as soon as possible
Make nutrition changes, such as avoiding high sugar intake and including probiotics in your diet
Wear moisture-wicking underwear and clothing that allows airflow to the vagina
Always wear protection, such as condoms during penetrative sex orLorals for Protection during oral or female-on-female sex
Takeaways
While types of vaginitis like BV and yeast infections can be worrisome, both are highly common types of vaginitis, and highly treatable.
Both yeast infections and BV share similar symptomatic traits, but the root causes and how each is treated are wholly different.
If you are looking for added protection from vaginitis, be sure to take a look at Lorels for Protection. Lorels are latex underwear specifically designed to prevent the exchange of bodily fluids—and therefore lower the risks of vaginal flora disruption—during oral sex.
Our team has over a decade of experience in the sexual wellness field and are experts in sexual dysfunctions, like premature ejaculation. We help couples and individuals better understand treatment options available for different types of sexual needs and educate the public on all things related to intimacy. All of our authored content is medically reviewed for accuracy and reliability.
Sources:
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The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
