Bacterial Vaginosis vs. Yeast Infection: What are the differences between them?

 

Both the mentioned infections are different yet common types of bacterial infections. They are both curable and are caused by the overgrowth of normal microorganisms that are present in the vaginal area. Bacterial vaginosis is caused by Gardnerella vaginalise’s overgrowth in the vaginal area. It disrupts the natural pH levels; on the other hand, overgrowth of candida fungus overgrowth causes yeast infections. Consult gynecologist if you face any infection or if your condition worsens immediately. 

 

What is The Difference Between BV & YI?

The significant difference between bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections is the microbe that causes them: BV is a bacterial infection, while yeast infections are fungal. Both types of infections can cause burning when urinating, but they are not urinary tract infections but vaginal infections. There is no sexually transmitted infection (STI) associated with either of these conditions. However, a person with BV may be more likely to contract STDs, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis have a higher prevalence in sexually active people. 

 

Bacterias Causing Them 

Bacterial Vaginosis is caused by the overgrowth of the bacteria known as Gardnerella Vaginalis. On the other hand, yeast infections are fungal and are caused by Candida Albicans’ overgrowth.

 

Burning Sensations 

In the case of bacterial vaginosis, burning sensation might occur while urinating, which is typically quite irritating. However, in the case of yeast infection, there is a burning sensation quite often while urinating or having sexual activity. Consult your family doctor if you face any of the issues immediately. 

 

Odor & Discharge

In some cases, there is a thin, white, yellow, or grey vaginal discharge along with a fishy, unusual odor. In the case of Yeast Infection, there is a  white discharge that is often thick and clumpy, and there is a chance that it may or may not cause odor. Consult online doctor if visiting one is not possible and save time at the same time. 

 

Inflammation 

Bacterial vaginosis typically causes redness or inflammation of the vaginal area. Yeast infection, on the other hand, casues rednnes, irritation and inflammation of the vagina nd surrounding genital area. 

 

Treatment 

Both cases are treated differently, in case of bacterial infection, it is treated by antibiotics. Yeast infections are fungal and are treated by antifungal medications (OTC or prescription).

 

Conclusion

Both infections are generated at the same place but have different roots. The microorganism that causes BV is bacterial, whereas the microorganism that causes YI is fungal. Moreover, YI is likely to cause more burning sensations than BV while urinating or having any sexual activity. The odor and discharge also vary in both cases. Apart from that, there is redness or inflammation in the case of BV; however, in the case of YI, there is redness, irritation, and inflammation. 

 

FAQs

Q1. Can a yeast infection cause a bacterial infection?

Not at all. It is a yeast infection caused by a fungus (Candida), not a bacterial infection.

 

Q2. Are BV and yeast infections treated the same way?

No. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial vaginosis, and antifungal medication is used to treat yeast infections. To use the correct treatment, you must be able to distinguish between the two.