Bacterial Vaginosis Versus Yeast Infection: What is the difference between the two?

As summer is approaching, some of us may experience changes in our vaginal health. The most common vaginal conditions among my patients are bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. While these conditions may result from sexual activity, this is not always the case! These conditions may arise from an interplay of external factors such as poor hygiene, or may result from internal factors such as a weakened immune system. Below you will find a description of the two conditions as well as tips for optimal vaginal health!

What is bacterial vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) takes the lead as the primary culprit behind vaginal symptoms among women ages 15-44. Bacterial vaginosis is when there is an imbalance of “good” versus “harmful” vaginal bacteria. Douching, not using condoms, and having multiple sex partners may increase your risk of BV. Symptoms of BV may include thin white or gray discharge, burning or itching sensations including during urination, or strong fishy odors. However, many women may have BV without experiencing any of these symptoms. A provider may obtain a vaginal culture to diagnose the presence of BV. Upon diagnosis, BV can be cured with prescribed antibiotics. Lack of treatment may increase your susceptibility to other sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea and chlamydia.

What is a yeast infection?

Among U.S. women, yeast infections are the second most common type of vaginal infection after bacterial vaginosis. Yeast infections, scientifically known as “vaginal candidiasis,” is a condition caused by Candida, a yeast-like fungus. Candida is normally present throughout the body. However, an overgrowth may cause symptoms which include vaginal itching and soreness, pain during sexual intercourse or urination, and abnormal discharge. Women who are pregnant, use oral contraceptives or antibiotics, or have been diagnosed with diabetes or a weakened immune system are at greater risk of developing a yeast infection. Similarly to bacterial vaginosis, a provider may obtain a vaginal culture to diagnose the presence of Candida. Oftentimes, yeast infections are treated with antifungal medication.

Tips for Optimal Vaginal Health

Now that you have a better understanding of BV and yeast infections, here are some tips to help maintain your vaginal health: 

1. Take care of your overall health. Some of us may forget the fact that eating healthy, drinking water, and exercising can have a positive impact on vaginal health. 
2. Avoid scented products and douching, opt for warm water instead. Feminine hygiene products and douching may disrupt your pH balance which can cause overgrowth of bacteria or Candida. The vagina is a self-cleaning organ, so using warm water is sufficient! 
3. Use cotton underwear. Cotton is a good material because it prevents excess moisture, making the environment less suitable for bacteria and Candida to thrive.
4. Be sexually responsible. Limiting the number of sexual partners, using condoms, and getting frequent STD screenings are good preventive measures to ensure the protection of your vaginal health.

While these tips are great preventative measures, additional individual environmental and lifestyle factors can contribute to your risk of contracting BV or yeast infection. Schedule an appointment with us to discuss your personal risk factors or any of your vaginal health concerns. 

CDC – Bacterial Vaginosis Statistics. Published May 6, 2021. Accessed June 19, 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/std/bv/stats.htm 
STD Facts – Bacterial Vaginosis. Published June 2, 2022. Accessed June 19, 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/std/bv/stdfact-bacterial-vaginosis.htm Learn More About Vaginal Candidiasis (vaginal yeast infections). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published July 13, 2022. Accessed June 19, 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/candidiasis/genital/index.html

About Dr. Peggy Roberts:

Dr. Peggy Roberts is a board certified, New York licensed Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner. She has spent over a decade caring for women of all ages. She has extensive experience in preventative medicine for women, high-risk pregnancies, other medicine and aesthetics.

Media Contact:

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