When something feels off “down there,” it’s natural to wonder: Is it a yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis (BV), or a sexually transmitted infection (STI)? Both yeast infections and BV are forms of vaginitis, but their causes, symptoms, and treatments differ significantly.
What is a Yeast Infection?
A yeast infection (also called vaginal candidiasis or vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) by doctors) is caused by an overgrowth of candida, a type of fungus that normally lives in small amounts throughout different parts of the body, including the vagina. When candida levels are in balance, there are no issues with it being there, but if it gets out of balance, the levels of candida rapidly increase and result in infection.
Vaginal yeast infections are very common, with about 75% of women experiencing one at some point in their lives. Nearly 50% of women who experience one infection will experience another in the future.
Complicated Yeast Infections
Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC), sometimes referred to as a complicated yeast infection, is characterized by three or more yeast infections in a year and occurs at the highest rates in women aged 25-34. Pregnancy, unmanaged diabetes, autoimmune conditions, or the presence of an alternate form of candida in the vagina can all contribute to a complicated yeast infection.
What Causes Uncomplicated Vaginal Yeast Infections?
Health factors such as being on antibiotics or birth control, pregnancy, a weakened immune system, and unmanaged diabetes can all increase your risk of yeast infections.
Lifestyle factors such as staying in wet bathing suits, not changing out of sweaty clothing, and using scented tampons can also increase your risk of yeast infections.
Can Males Experience Yeast Infections?
While women are more likely to get yeast infections, men also commonly contract yeast infections, which can lead to balanitis (inflammation of the head of the penis). About 1 in every 25 men will have a yeast infection during their lifetime, more commonly if they are under the age of 5 or are uncircumcised. Usually, an antifungal cream will clear the infection.
What is Bacterial Vaginosis?
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) occurs when the natural balance of vaginal bacteria is disrupted, causing an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. This causes the “bad” bacteria to overpower the “good” bacteria in the vagina and leads to infection. Bacterial vaginosis is the most common type of vaginitis, and yeast infections are the second most common. 35% of women will experience BV at some point in their lives. Generally, BV occurs in women who are sexually active, though some women naturally overproduce the bacteria that causes BV.
Pregnancy, antibiotic use, having new sexual partners, having an IUD, and not using protection during sexual activity all increase your risk of getting BV.
Can Males get BV?
Men are not able to contract BV. However, if they are having unprotected sex with multiple female partners, they can spread the infection from one woman to another.
Symptom Comparison
Symptoms of Yeast Infection
- Intense itching and burning
- Thick, white discharge (often described as cottage cheese-like) with no odor
- Redness, swelling, and irritation around the vulva, especially during urination and/or sex
Symptoms of BV
- Thin, grayish-white discharge
- Noticeable fishy odor, especially after intercourse
- Mild itching or no symptoms at all (85% of cases)
Diagnosis
Since yeast infections and BV share similar symptoms but have different treatments, it’s important to see a doctor if you think you might have one or the other but are unsure which. A vaginal swab test can confirm a diagnosis of BV. Self-diagnosis or delay in seeking medical treatment may lead to ineffective remedies and prolonged discomfort.
Yeast Infection Treatments
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Options
In most cases, OTC antifungal creams and suppositories (e.g., miconazole, clotrimazole) work to treat a yeast infection within a few days to a week. These medications are convenient and effective, usually requiring only one dose. However, it is estimated that nearly 2 out of 3 women who purchase OTC treatments don’t actually have yeast infections, meaning that the next time the medication is used it may be less effective to treat an actual yeast infection. The best course of action is to see your doctor to rule out other possible causes of the irritation.
Prescription Medications
Oral antifungal medications like fluconazole can be prescribed by a doctor.
Natural Remedies
Some people turn to natural remedies, such as probiotics (which may help restore vaginal balance) or tea tree oil. While these remedies can provide relief, it’s essential to consult a doctor before trying them as they could cause more irritation. Douching, using yogurt, or sitting in vinegar are all considered no-nos by doctors!
Other steps you can take immediately to expedite recovery are avoiding irritants like scented soaps, bubble baths, or douches. Additionally, wearing breathable cotton underwear is recommended.
Bacterial Vaginosis Treatment
Some cases of BV resolve on their own without medication. However, if you are experiencing symptoms, it is advisable to see your doctor since having BV makes you more susceptible to STIs and can also affect pregnancy. BV is treated with antibiotics and typically resolves within a few days. It is common for BV to return within a few months, in which case more antibiotics would be prescribed. If you experience BV more than 4 times in a year, you will likely be prescribed an antibiotic gel to use for a longer period of time. There are no OTC products that treat BV.
Preventing Future Infections
Prevention is key to avoiding recurring yeast infections and BV. The following steps can help you to avoid future infections:
- Wear loose, breathable clothing.
- Change out of wet swimsuits or workout gear promptly.
- Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use, which can disrupt vaginal flora.
- Practice safe sex and avoid douching, which can upset your natural balance.
- Clean sex toys after each use.
FAQs About Yeast Infections and BV
Q: Can I have both a yeast infection and BV at the same time?
A: Yes, it’s possible to have both conditions simultaneously. A healthcare provider can help diagnose and treat both.
Q: What happens if a yeast infection goes untreated?
A: Untreated yeast infections can lead to chronic discomfort and, in rare cases, complications like sores or cracks in the skin.
Q: What happens if BV is untreated?
A: Sometimes BV can resolve on its own, but untreated BV can also lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, an increased risk of contracting STIs, and pregnancy complications. Because of this, it is best to be seen by your primary care provider or OBGYN.
Q: Are yeast infections contagious?
A: Yeast infections are not considered STIs because they can be caused by things other than sexual activity and can occur in individuals who aren’t sexually active. However, they can be passed between sexual partners.
Q: Does Alpha Center diagnose or treat yeast infections or BV?
A: No, Alpha Center only performs routine STI testing. Since these infections are not STIs and their diagnosis requires a physical exam, this is out of our scope of care. However, you can talk to one of our nurses about your questions and they can provide you with resources if you are concerned about a possible infection.
Q: Are BV or Yeast Infections considered STIs?
A: Neither BV nor yeast infections are considered STIs because you do not have to be sexually active to experience them, though BV is very rarely contracted by women who are not sexually active. Doctors believe that, unlike yeast infections, BV is linked to sexual activity because sex can change the bacterial environment of the vagina.
Questions? Talk to Your Primary Care Provider or OBGYN
Understanding the difference between yeast infections and BV is crucial for finding the right treatment and relief. If you’re unsure about your symptoms or experience worsening or recurrent infections, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and guidance.
Written by Kristen Long for Alpha Center. Medically reviewed by Meghan Downing, RN and Nurse Manager. Published January 2025.
References
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment. Cleveland Clinic.Published February 6, 2023. Accessed January 13, 2025. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/3963-bacterial-vaginosis
Male Yeast Infection (Candida Balanitis): Symptoms, Causes & Treatment. Cleveland Clinic. Published June 6, 2022. Accessed January 13, 2025. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23199-male-yeast-infection
Vaginal Yeast Infection. Cleveland Clinic. Published September 2, 2022. Accessed January 13, 2025. https://www.verywellhealth.com/yeast-infection-or-std-5121048
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment. Cleveland Clinic. Published February 06, 2023. Accessed January 13, 2025. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/3963-bacterial-vaginosis#management-and-treatment
Gargollo, P. Yeast infection in men: How can I tell if I have one? Mayo Clinic. Published December 21, 2022. Accessed January 13, 2025. https://www.mayoclinic.org/male-yeast-infection/expert-answers/faq-20058464
Madormo, C. Yeast Infection, STD, or Something Else? VeryWell Health. Published July 24, 2024. Accessed January 13, 2025. https://www.verywellhealth.com/yeast-infection-or-std-5121048
O’Donovan, J. Doctor Explains How to Treat and Prevent Bacterial Vaginosis. [Video] YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1P6yzaNd6q4 Published 2022, December 8. Accessed 2025, January 14.
Donders G, Sziller IO, Paavonen J, Hay P, de Seta F, Bohbot JM, Kotarski J, Vives JA, Szabo B, Cepuliené R, Mendling W. Management of recurrent vulvovaginal candidosis: Narrative review of the literature and European expert panel opinion. Front Cell Infect Microbiol. 2022 Sep 9;12:934353. doi: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.934353. PMID: 36159646; PMCID: PMC9504472.
Smith, L. What to know about vaginal yeast infections. Medical News Today. Published June 17, 2024. Accessed January 14, 2025. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/151172