Doctor's Notes on Yeast Infection and Bacterial Vaginosis
Two of the most common causes of vaginitis (inflammation of the vaginal area) are yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis:
- Vaginal yeast infections caused by Candida albicans are most commonly responsible for vaginitis. Vaginal yeast infections occur when new yeast is introduced into the vaginal area or when there is an overgrowth of the yeast already present in the vagina.
- Bacterial vaginosis refers to an overgrowth of certain types of bacteria that are normally present in the vagina.
Symptoms of both yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis include vaginal discharge:
- In bacterial vaginosis, discharge is usually gray to white in color but can be of any color and there is an unpleasant odor.
- In yeast infection, discharge is usually odorless, thick and whitish, with a consistency similar to that of cottage cheese.
Other symptoms yeast infections include itching in the vaginal or vulvar area, a burning sensation, and pain during intercourse or urination.
What Is the Treatment for Yeast Infection and Bacterial Vaginosis?
Topical, over-the-counter antifungal treatments are used to treat most yeast infections. These are usually administered for 1-3 days. Oral prescription antifungal medications are used to treat recurrent yeast infections or infections that do not respond to topical treatment. Some women who have recurrent yeast infections may receive maintenance treatment on a weekly or monthly basis.
Bacterial vaginosis is treated by antibiotics, either in topical form (as a cream or gel applied directly to the vagina) or in oral form.
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Antibiotics
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Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Bacterial vaginosis is a common vaginal infection. The causes of bacterial vaginosis are not clear. Symptoms of bacterial vaginosis include a foul vaginal odor and vaginal discharge. Treatment for bacterial vaginosis is generally with antibiotics. -
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) vs. Trich (Trichomoniasis)
Two of the most common types of bacterial infections are bacterial vaginosis (BV) and trichomoniasis (Trich). Only women can get bacterial vaginitis, but both men and women can get trichomoniasis, which is an STD. Both BV and Trich have distinct smells and odors. Both BV and Trich need medications to treat the infections. -
Vaginal Infections
Vaginal infections, or vaginitis, describe the most common medical concerns women have in the area of their reproductive organs. Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina that creates discharge, odor, and other symptoms. -
Vaginal Yeast Infection Treatments
A vaginal yeast infection occurs when normal fungi in the vagina experience an overgrowth. Yeast infections can be caused by use of antibiotics, hormonal changes, diabetes, use of douches, and a compromised immune system, among other causes. Treatments are typically simple and can include oral and vaginal medications. -
Vaginal Yeast Infections
Vaginal yeast infections (vaginal candidiasis, genital candidiasis, or vulvovaginal candidiasis) is a fungal or yeast infection. Symptoms include vaginal discharge, vaginal itching, painful or burning urination, and painful intercourse. There are a variety of causes of a vaginal yeast infection. Treatment is generally OTC vaginal yeast infection medication. -
What Are Symptoms of Yeast Infection in Males?
While yeast infections tend to refer to candidiasis in the vagina in women, yeast infections can also occur in males. Itching and burning in the foreskin, red rash on the penis, swelling and white discharge are among the symptoms of yeast infection in males. -
Yeast Infection (Candida, Candidiasis)
Candidiasis is type of yeast infection, and is the most common type of yeast infection. Candidiasis yeast infections are caused by a fungus. Areas where candidiasis yeast infection can occur are vaginal, thrush (mouth), skin, diaper rash, nailbed, penile, and other genital organs. Treatment for candidiasis yeast infections are OTC and prescription medication. Rarely a candidiasis yeast infection can infect the internal organs and cause serious complications, even death.
REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.