BV vs Yeast Infection: How to tell the difference and what to do about it.


Pic by Alessandro Rossi via Unsplash.


Itchy, sore, or noticing a not-so-fresh smell down there? You're definitely not alone, Moxette. Two of the most common culprits, bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections, share a few symptoms but are actually pretty different beasts. Knowing how to tell them apart is half the battle.


Both BV and yeast infections are super common, completely treatable, and absolutely nothing to be embarrassed about. The tricky part? Their symptoms can overlap, leaving you wondering exactly what's going on (and what to do about it).


We're here to help you decode the signs, understand the causes, and figure out your next move. Because when it comes to your intimate health, knowing what's normal for you is everything.

 

WHAT IS BV (BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS)?

BV is one of the most common vaginal conditions, particularly for people of menstruating age. It happens when the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina gets thrown out of whack, specifically, when the 'bad' bacteria starts to outnumber the 'good' stuff (lactobacilli) that keeps your vaginal pH in check.

Common symptoms of BV can include:

  • A thin, watery, greyish-white discharge
  • A strong, fishy odour (often more noticeable after sex)
  • Mild itching or irritation around the vulva
  • A burning feeling when you wee

Some Moxettes don't experience any symptoms at all, but if you've noticed a sudden change in scent or discharge, it's worth getting checked.

 

WHAT IS A YEAST INFECTION?

Also known as thrush or candidiasis, a yeast infection is caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida albicans, which naturally lives in small amounts in your vagina. When something disrupts your pH or microbiome, this fungus can multiply and cause some pretty uncomfortable symptoms.

Common symptoms of yeast infection include:

  • Thick, white, 'cottage cheese-like' discharge
  • Intense itching and irritation around the vulva
  • Redness and swelling
  • A burning sensation, especially when peeing or during sex
  • General soreness or discomfort down there

Unlike BV, yeast infections usually don't cause a strong odour, and the discharge tends to look quite different too.

 

BV VS YEAST INFECTION - WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?

While they're both bothersome (and have a few overlapping symptoms), BV and yeast infections behave pretty differently. Let's break it down.

KEY SYMPTOMS AND DISCHARGE DIFFERENCES

The biggest giveaway between BV vs yeast infection is in the discharge:

  • BV: thin, watery, greyish-white, with a noticeable fishy smell.
  • Yeast infection: thick, white and clumpy (think cottage cheese), usually no strong smell.

When it comes to how they feel:

  • BV: mild irritation or burning, sometimes no discomfort at all.
  • Yeast infection: intense itching, redness, swelling and general soreness.


COMMON CAUSES AND TRIGGERS

Both can be triggered by similar things, including:

  • Antibiotics (which can wipe out the good bacteria along with the bad)
  • Hormonal changes (think period, pregnancy, menopause)
  • Sex (especially with a new partner)
  • Scented soaps, washes, or douching
  • Tight, non-breathable underwear

BV is most often linked to anything that disrupts your vaginal pH, while yeast infections are commonly triggered by warm, damp environments (hello, sweaty gym leggings) or a weakened immune system.


HOW EACH AFFECTS VAGINAL HEALTH

Left untreated, BV can increase your risk of contracting STIs and may cause complications during pregnancy. Yeast infections, on the other hand, can become recurrent and uncomfortable.

The good news? Both are treatable, and the sooner you get on top of them, the better. Timely care isn't about panic, Moxette, it's about empowerment.

 

HOW TO TREAT BV AND YEAST INFECTIONS

BV TREATMENT OPTIONS

Wondering how do you treat BV? It's most commonly treated with prescription antibiotics, either oral tablets or a vaginal cream/gel. It's super important to finish the full course as prescribed by your doctor or pharmacist, even if your symptoms clear up early.

A few aftercare tips to help things stay balanced:

  • Avoid douching or using scented intimate products
  • Wear breathable cotton undies
  • Try a probiotic. Some research suggests they may help restore healthy vaginal flora


YEAST INFECTION TREATMENT OPTIONS

So, how to treat a yeast infection? Most are treated with antifungal creams, suppositories, or a single-dose oral tablet, all available over the counter or via prescription.

If it's your first ever yeast infection, or you're not 100% sure what you're dealing with, see your GP first. Self-treating without confirming the diagnosis can sometimes make things worse.

 

CAN YOU PREVENT BV OR YEAST INFECTIONS?

You can absolutely take steps to lower your risk. Try to:

  • Wear breathable cotton undies (and change them daily!)
  • Skip scented soaps, body washes, and douches
  • Wash gently with water or a pH-friendly intimate wash
  • Avoid sitting around in damp swimmers or sweaty gym gear
  • Wipe front-to-back after using the loo
  • Choose breathable, gentle period products (ideally organic cotton if you're choosing disposables) that work with your body, not against it

 

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR

If your symptoms aren't clearing up, keep coming back, or are paired with anything unusual (think pelvic pain, fever, or bleeding between periods), book in with your GP. There's zero shame in seeking help, Moxette. Vaginal health is health, full stop.

 

FINAL THOUGHTS 

BV and yeast infections might feel a bit awkward to talk about, but they're incredibly common and totally manageable. Knowing your body, paying attention to changes, and trusting your instincts is one of the best forms of self-care.

Choose products that support your natural balance, keep things breathable down there, and remember: when in doubt, get it checked out.

 

FAQ

CAN YOU HAVE BOTH BV AND A YEAST INFECTION AT THE SAME TIME?

Yep, unfortunately you can. It's not super common, but it does happen. If you're noticing symptoms of both, definitely see your GP for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.


WILL BV OR A YEAST INFECTION GO AWAY ON ITS OWN?

Sometimes mild cases can clear up without treatment, but in many cases, BV needs antibiotics to fully resolve. Yeast infections can occasionally clear up on their own too, but if symptoms last longer than a few days, it's best to treat them. 


DOES PERIOD BLOOD HELP CLEAR BV OR YEAST INFECTIONS?

Not really. Period blood can temporarily change your vaginal pH (it's slightly more alkaline), which may briefly mask symptoms, but it doesn't actually treat the underlying infection.

 

NOTE: This blog, and others on our site, are intended to educate and inform only, and should not constitute or replace a personalised medical diagnosis. If you're ever unsure about anything at all to do with your intimate health (or health in general), please check in with a trusted health practitioner.

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