Myth: Yeast Infections and Bacterial Vaginosis Are the Same Thing

It’s easy to confuse a yeast infection with BV, especially when you’re dealing with similar symptoms like discharge and discomfort. However, these are two different conditions with very different causes. A yeast infection is caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans. Put simply, the healthy yeast that normally lives in your vagina grows more than it should.

On the other hand, bacterial vaginosis (BV) is caused by an imbalance in the healthy bacteria (not yeast) that naturally live in the vagina. Since the treatment for yeast — antifungals — is totally different from the treatment for BV —antibiotics — knowing the difference really matters.

Myth: Only People Who Are “Dirty” Get These Vaginal Infections

Getting a yeast infection or BV has nothing to do with being dirty or clean. In fact, using liquid soap, shower gel, or douches can disrupt your vagina’s natural balance and lead to infections.

Both BV and yeast infections are incredibly common and can happen to anyone with a vagina, regardless of how clean they are. This part of your body is actually self-cleaning and doesn’t require a ton of harsh soap or any floral-scented help. Honestly, washing your vulva with unscented soap or even just water is the healthiest way to keep clean.

Myth: You Can Always Tell Which One You Have 

While you might notice something feels off, it’s not always easy to tell what’s going on. Both yeast infections and BV can cause itching, burning, and discharge, but the type of discharge can offer some clues.

Yeast infections often come with thick, white or yellowish discharge, and intense itching that becomes uncomfortable. BV can cause discharge, as well, but it can come with a fishy odor, especially after sex.

Still, self-diagnosing isn’t foolproof. Sources state that seventy-five percent of women will experience a yeast infection at least once, but that doesn’t mean guessing is a good idea. When in doubt, check it out. Reach out to a health care provider to be extra sure.

Myth: You Can Treat Both With the Same Over-the-Counter Meds 

If you have a yeast infection, you might reach for an antifungal cream or suppository from the pharmacy. That can work, but if you actually have BV, those won’t help at all.

BV requires antibiotics, usually prescribed by a health care provider. Using the wrong treatment can delay relief and mess with your vaginal flora even more. If you’ve treated what you thought was a yeast infection and it’s not getting better, that’s your sign to pause and reassess.

What to Do If You’re Not Sure

It’s totally okay if you’re not sure what’s going on down there. That’s why health care professionals exist — to help you figure it out. They may do a shame-free urine sample or swab of your vagina to understand whether you’re dealing with a yeast infection, BV, or something else entirely. These tests are done by your primary health care provider or an OBGYN. If you have health insurance, your care may be covered. Many public health clinics offer free or sliding scale services, depending on your financial situation.

The key takeaway is don’t treat yourself based on guesswork or a Google search. While this can help with clues, getting an accurate diagnosis means faster relief and better overall vaginal health. You also rule out the possibility of STDs or other health issues when you see a health care provider.      

Fast Facts About These Common Vaginal Infections

Let’s wrap it up with some quick truths: 

• Yeast infections are fungal, and BV is bacterial.

• Both yeast infections and BV have similar symptoms but different causes. 

• Over-the-counter medicines like Monistat only work for yeast infections, not BV.

• Harsh products filled with scents and other chemicals can increase your risk of vaginal infections.

• If symptoms persist or return, see your health care provider as soon as possible. You deserve to feel better.

FAQs 

How to Know if You Have a Yeast Infection

There are a few different signs of a yeast infection. One of the most distinct ones being a thick, white cottage-cheese like discharge. Other symptoms are redness, itchiness, and swelling of the vaginal area. 

How to Get Rid Of a Yeast Infection

Yeast infections are frequently treated by antifungal medications. These medications are either taken by mouth or applied as a cream and can be purchased over-the-counter or be prescribed by a nurse or doctor. The ultimate goal of any treatment is to restore a healthy balance of yeast in your body.  

Can You Get a Yeast Infection From Having Sex?

Yeast infections can develop after having sex, however, they’re not considered a sexually transmitted disease (AKA STD). Bacteria transferred during sex through genitalia, sex toys, or fingers can trigger a yeast infection. 

What Happens if a Yeast Infection Goes Untreated?

If a yeast infection goes untreated, symptoms can often get worse with increased redness, irritation and itchiness. In some cases, yeast infections can go away on their own, however, if untreated, they can also become more serious, causing invasive candidiasis, a yeast infection that spreads to other parts of the body, or candidemia, a bloodstream infection. However, these complications are highly unlikely unless you are immunocompromised.

BV There, Done That

Yeast infections and BV might both throw off your vibe, but they’re not the same party crashers. The more you know about what’s happening below the belt, the easier it is to treat it right and feel like yourself again. Trust your body, skip the guesswork and don’t be afraid to call in a health care provider when things feel off.

Mia Barnes is a professional freelance writer and researcher specializing in women's health and wellness. Mia is a regular contributor to the Sexual Medicine Society of North America blog and has written content on women's intimate health for Real Simple. Mia is also the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind magazine. You can follow Mia and Body+Mind @bodymindmag on all platforms.