Pelvic inflammatory disease: Symptoms, treatment, causes, and more
How Is Bacterial Vaginosis Different From A Yeast Infection?
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and vaginal yeast infections can both cause pain and discomfort, difficulty urinating, and itching. Other symptoms, such as vaginal discharge, may differ. Treatment will depend on which infection a person has.
A yeast infection and BV are both infections that cause vaginitis.
Vaginitis is the medical term for inflammation of the vagina. It can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, including:
Below, we describe the differences between BV and a yeast infection. In particular, we explore the symptoms of both issues and the steps a person can take to prevent them.
BV and yeast infections have different causes and risk factors, but both cause inflammation of the vagina — vaginitis. In fact, these infections are two of the most common causes of vaginitis.
When a doctor diagnoses a cause of vaginitis, the cause is:
It can sometimes be hard to tell whether a person has BV or a yeast infection, but there are some characteristic signs.
The table below summarizes similarities and differences in the symptoms of BV and a yeast infection:
BV causes"Vaginal flora" collectively refers to the bacteria that live in the vagina.
Usually, among the vaginal flora, there is more of a type of helpful bacteria, called Lactobacillus, than harmful bacteria.
Certain activities can disrupt the natural balance of the microorganisms in the vagina, and this disruption leads to BV.
Risk factors for BV include:
Bacteria do not cause vaginal yeast infections. Instead, the cause is usually a type of fungus, or yeast, called Candida.
This fungus can be naturally present in the vaginal area, but Lactobacillus bacteria usually restrict the growth of Candida.
However, in some situations, Candida multiplies unchecked, leading to a yeast infection.
Risk factors for a yeast infection include:
To determine whether a vaginal infection is BV or a yeast infection, a doctor may:
Around 20% of healthy females tend to have Candida in their vaginas, so a positive fungal culture does not necessarily indicate that the fungus is responsible for any symptoms.
The treatments for BV and a yeast infection are different. Also, the right course of treatment can depend on the severity of the infection.
BV treatmentTo treat BV, a doctor may prescribe antibiotic medications, such as:
If a person experiences mild to moderate symptoms of a yeast infection, a doctor may recommend one of the following antifungal medications:
If a person has a severe yeast infection, a doctor may recommend taking a long course of antifungal medication, involving multiple doses.
Some strains of Candida are resistant to conventional medications. When one of these strains is causing the infection, the doctor will recommend special antifungal treatments.
It is not always possible to prevent BV or a yeast infection. However, doing the following can reduce the risk:
BV and a yeast infection can cause similar symptoms, though there are telltale differences.
Different issues cause the two infections, so they require different treatments.
BV results from an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the vagina, while an overgrowth of Candida fungus causes a yeast infection.
Both infections cause changes in vaginal discharge. BV causes thin discharge with a fishy odor, while a yeast infection causes discharge that is thick and odorless.
Doctors typically recommend antibiotic medications to treat BV and antifungal medications to treat yeast infections. Also, over-the-counter tablets, creams, ointments, and suppositories are available to treat mild to moderate yeast infections.
How To Get Rid Of Bacterial Vaginosis At Home
Probiotics and other supplements may help treat bacterial vaginosis (BV) without antibiotics. Using barrier protection and practicing proper hygiene can also reduce the risk of developing BV.
In the United States, as many as 21.2 million women aged 14–49 have bacterial vaginosis (BV). This equates to almost a third of people in this range. Many people may have no symptoms, while others may mistake their symptoms for another infection, such as a yeast infection.
The most common symptom of BV is an odor coming from the vagina. Some people also experience itching, burning, or an unusual gray discharge.
Antibiotics can treat most cases of BV. However, some people may prefer to try home remedies first.
This article explores home remedies for preventing and treating bacterial vaginosis.
The exact cause of BV is not known, but it is more common in sexually active people.
The vagina is home to a complex colony of organisms that maintain vaginal health and chemical pH. When vaginal pH or bacteria change, the vagina is more vulnerable to infections, including BV.
Sexual practices that disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina may play a role in BV development. Strategies that lower the risk include:
People who think they have BV should either abstain from sex or practice sex with barrier protection until the infection is gone.
The vagina is a self-cleaning organ that does not require douches, soaps, or perfumes. In fact, the use of these products can alter vaginal pH.
Safe hygiene practices may help reduce a person's risk of developing BV.
To reduce the risk of developing or worsening BV, the following may help:
Learn more about vaginal hygiene here.
BV rarely causes severe symptoms. However, anyone who suspects they have BV should contact a medical professional, especially if:
In most cases, a doctor can quickly diagnose BV. A short course of antibiotics should clear up the infection. These antibiotics rarely produce significant side effects.
If a person suspects they have BV, they should contact a medical professional as a first option. However, some people may wish to try alternative remedies, such as those below.
Probiotics help the body grow beneficial bacteria that can fight the bacteria associated with BV. A 2019 review concluded that probiotic therapy might have both short- and long-term benefits in treating BV.
People may wish to take probiotic supplements. However, natural probiotics can also support the bacterial colony that keeps the vagina healthy. These include:
Learn more about probiotic foods here.
Several compounds in garlic have natural antibacterial properties.
A 2014 study found that garlic supplement tablets had a similar therapeutic effect in treating BV as metronidazole, an oral antibiotic.
However, it is important to note that the above study assessed oral garlic supplements only. A person should never place garlic or garlic products in or around their vagina.
Vaginal suppositories containing boric acid may help treat BV.
A 2021 study found that using intravaginal boric acid in addition to antibiotic medications can be of benefit in treating BV. A 2019 review reported similar benefits for boric acid in treating BV and yeast infections.
However, the authors of both studies concluded that further research is necessary to assess how boric acid assists in treatment fully.
Boric acid is toxic if people take it orally. A person should only ever use this product as per instructions.
Limited anecdotal claims suggest that tea tree oil may help treat BV. However, there is no scientific evidence that tea tree oil or products containing tea tree oil can help with the condition.
Tea tree oil treatments may cause allergic reactions in some people and are not safe for use during pregnancy. People considering purchasing tea tree oil treatments should always consult a doctor first.
Some people also claim that apple cider vinegar can assist in treating BV. However, it is important to note that these claims are purely anecdotal, and there is no evidence to prove them.
Home treatments may benefit some people but should not take the place of evidence-based treatment plans. A person wishing to use home remedies should speak with a doctor before doing so.
The primary treatment course for BV is antibiotics. However, some people may wish to treat the condition at home.
Options for home treatments include practicing safe hygiene, using barrier protection during intercourse, and taking probiotic supplements.
BV is a common condition and typically is not cause for concern. However, anyone experiencing symptoms of BV should always contact a medical professional as the first course of action.
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Home Remedies For Yeast Infections: 5 Solutions And Prevention Tips, According To Doctors
You may already be well-versed in all things vaginal care, from the best soaps for your vagina and vulva to feminine wipes. However, yeast infections can be particularly frustrating and uncomfortable, especially if you have to wait to get medication. So, are any home remedies for yeast infections actually legit? Let's find out.
Vaginal yeast infections affect up to three out of four women at some point in their lifetimes and many women will experience at least two episodes, according to Mayo Clinic. "A yeast infection is one of the most common causes of vaginal itching and discharge and is caused by an organism of the candida species," which is a type of yeast, says Carolyn Mills, MD, obstetrics and gynecology hospitalist at Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital.
Whether you have experienced a yeast infection a few times before or are wondering if you currently have one, ob-gyns and women's health experts break down everything you need to know about the itchy condition, including common symptoms, causes, prevention, and treatments, including home remedies for yeast infections.
Meet the experts: Carolyn Mills, MD, is an obstetrics and gynecology hospitalist at Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital. Kelly Culwell, MD, also known as Dr. Lady Doctor, is a board-certified ob-gyn and nationally renowned women's health expert.
What is a yeast infection, exactly?Again, yeast infections are caused by candida, which normally lives on the skin and inside the body without causing any problems, according to the CDC. In fact, areas like the gut, mouth, throat, and vagina all contain some degree of candida.
However, candida can cause an infection if the conditions change inside the vagina to encourage its growth. (More on this in a bit.) Changes in the immune system, hormones, and even certain medications can make infection more likely.
Common Yeast Infection SymptomsThe symptoms of a yeast infection vary, but some people may have a yeast infection and show no symptoms at all, according to Yale Medicine. However, some common yeast infection symptoms are clumpy, bright white vaginal discharge, vaginal itching, redness of the skin of the vulva, and itching of the vulvar skin, Dr. Mills says. Patients also report vulvar burning or soreness and may note burning with urination (which is caused by urine touching irritated vulva skin).
Some women report pain during sexual intercourse, according to the CDC. You may even develop small cuts or tiny cracks in the skin of the vulva because of fragile skin in the area, per the Cleveland Clinic.
Causes Of Yeast InfectionsRemember: "The cause of a yeast infection is a yeast organism of the candida species," says Dr. Mills. "It becomes an infection when candida becomes a predominant organism and causes the bothersome symptoms of discharge and itching."
This can happen after recent antibiotic use or in patients with diabetes who have uncontrolled blood sugar levels, Dr. Mills says. Elevated estrogen levels can also cause yeast infections and are seen during pregnancy and with postmenopausal hormone replacement. Patients who have an impaired immune system from certain medications or HIV are at increased risk for yeast infections as well.
Innocuous things can also cause infection. Yale Medicine cites potential irritants found in douche washes, soaps, and spermicide as potential culprits. Tight-fitting clothing like wet bathing suits and sweaty sportswear can also be to blame, so change out of those leggings stat!
How To Prevent A Yeast Infection"Some behavioral changes may help prevent symptoms, but have not been proven," Dr. Mills says. "These include avoiding douching, pantyhose, panty liners, and tight clothing. Condom use during intercourse and thoroughly cleaning cervical caps, diaphragms, and spermicide applicators are [also] recommended."
You may also want to be wary of scented feminine products including pads and tampons as they can kill the vagina's natural bacteria, per the Cleveland Clinic, which also notes that you should change out of wet clothing (like bathing suits or gym clothes) as soon as you can (it bares repeating!), use water-based sexual lubricants, and wear cotton underwear.
If you get frequent yeast infections, it may be worth talking to your doctor about your birth control: For women on birth control pills, switching to a pill that contains a lower dose of estrogen may help prevent yeast infections, Dr. Mills says. For those patients with diabetes, Dr. Mills says there are no reliable tips that have been proven by science to prevent yeast infections other than keeping blood sugar in control.
Home Remedies For Yeast InfectionsSince yeast infections are caused by the organism, candida, which needs treatment, the only home remedy for an actual yeast infection is an OTC antifungal medication. However, there are a few other things you can do on your own at home that may help treat the symptoms.
1. Over-the-Counter Treatments"There are a variety of over-the-counter topical or vaginal treatments for yeast infections which contain antifungal medication," says Kelly Culwell, MD, also known as Dr. Lady Doctor, a board-certified ob-gyn and nationally renowned women's health expert. If you have experienced a yeast infection before and are familiar with the symptoms unique to you and your body, it is reasonable to reach for an OTC treatment.
"However, studies have shown most people with vaginal symptoms misdiagnose themselves, even if they have had a previous yeast infection," says Dr. Culwell, so when in doubt, contact your healthcare provider. Most over-the-counter medications generally all contain similar active ingredients, antifungals, with treatments ranging from three to seven days.
2. Cool Compress"Vulvar (external) itching, which may or may not be due to a yeast infection, can be treated with cool compresses to the area two to three times daily," shares Dr. Mills. You don't have to get fancy here—Dr. Culwell adds that most people will find relief from a cool washcloth placed over the area of burning or itching.
3. Hydrocortisone CreamIf you're super itchy, "sometimes a thin layer of hydrocortisone cream or a non-scented moisturizer applied to the external vulvar skin can provide some relief from irritation or itching that may be caused by a yeast infection," shares Dr. Mills. Always be sure products can be used on the vulvar skin before applying, though.
4. Yogurt"There are some small studies that suggest eating yogurt with live cultures could aid in the treatment of vaginal yeast infections," says Dr. Culwell. "We don't really have great evidence to say that eating yogurt with live cultures helps treat or prevent vaginal yeast infections but the theory is that [doing so] supports a healthy gut microbiome which is related to a healthy vaginal microbiome."
That said, this theoretical mechanism is more likely to help with prevention of yeast infections over time rather than short term treatment, she notes.
Home Remedies To Avoid Or Use With CautionYou may have searched "home remedies for yeast infections" and come across boric acid, but Dr. Culwell cautions against using it without doctor oversight. "While boric acid vaginal suppositories are now available in pharmacies or online, this treatment should not be started before seeing a healthcare provider and is usually not recommended outside of a specific protocol to treat and prevent recurrent infections."
The same goes for other popular online remedies like tea tree oil and hydrogen peroxide, which Dr. Culwell does not recommend. "There is some theoretical potential of tea tree oil which has antifungal properties but this has not been [proven] to be useful for treatment or prevention of yeast infections clinically," she notes. Also: "Anytime you introduce anything to the vulva or vagina, even if it is 'natural,' it has the potential to worsen the delicate balance of pH and natural bacteria."
When To See A Doctor And Other SolutionsDr. Culwell says you should see a healthcare provider at any time, particularly if you are unsure if your symptoms are due to a yeast infection or if they do not respond to a course of over-the-counter treatment. "Then you should definitely schedule an appointment with your doctor," shares Dr. Culwell. In addition, if you have frequent recurrences of yeast infections (three to four or more per year) you should see a healthcare provider for additional evaluation.
When you see your provider, they will usually prescribe oral fluconazole, which is similar to the ingredients in over-the-counter vaginal medications, but usually just requires one tablet dose. "Your healthcare provider might recommend a second dose of oral fluconazole three days after the first [dose] in complicated recurrent cases or if symptoms do not resolve with one dose," says Dr. Culwell.
If you have recurrent yeast infections, your doctor may want to do a yeast culture to determine if you have a type of yeast that is resistant to traditional treatments and may recommend a course of vaginal boric acid and/or a longer-term suppression regimen.
If your symptoms do not go away with OTC treatments, it would also be important [for your doctor] to check for other causes of vaginal discharge and itching such as vaginal bacterial infections and sexually transmitted infections as well as other inflammatory skin conditions, Dr. Mills says.
Frequently Asked QuestionsDr. Culwell shares some of the most frequently asked questions about yeast infections and her answers to these popular queries.
Are yeast infections sexually transmitted?No, the symptoms of a yeast infection come from overgrowth of fungal organisms that are naturally present in the vagina at low levels, says Dr. Culwell. "Some people might find that vaginal sex triggers yeast infections, but that is due to semen altering the vaginal environment which can lead to overgrowth of the fungal organisms, but [a yeast infection] is not transmitted sexually."
How can I tell if I have a yeast infection or something else?If you are not sure, the best way to determine if you have a yeast infection, or if something else is causing your symptoms, is to see a healthcare provider for an exam and testing. "In general, yeast infections cause a characteristic thick and clumpy white discharge and usually cause vaginal/vulvar itching or burning. If your discharge is a different color (blood-tinged, brown, green, yellow), it has an unusual odor or if it is associated with pelvic pain, you should definitely see a healthcare provider as these symptoms are not typical of a yeast infection."
Why do I keep getting recurrent yeast infections?Unfortunately, some women are more prone to recurrent yeast infections. This could be due to a resistant strain of the yeast, which needs a different treatment, or it can be due to other genetic or medical factors, Dr. Culwell says, adding that some risk factors for recurrent yeast infections include antibiotic use, diabetes (particularly if poorly controlled), hormonal contraceptives that include estrogen (like the patch, pill, or ring), vaginal contraceptives like the diaphragm or sponge, weakened immune system (such as being treated with chemotherapy or things like HIV) and pregnancy.
Your healthcare provider may recommend testing for diabetes or changing birth control methods if you have frequent yeast infections.
Ashley Martens is a wellness writer based in Chicago. With a lifelong passion for all things health and wellness, Ashley enjoys writing about topics to help people live happier and healthier lives. With a foundation in fitness, food, and nutrition, Ashley covers it all including sexual health and travel topics. Ashley is also a NASM-certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor.
Kelly Culwell, MD, is an obstetrician-gynecologist with over 20 years specializing in women's health and contraceptive research. She currently serves as the head of research and development for Sebela Women's Health, where she leads the company's research and development programs focused on novel contraceptive methods. Dr. Culwell maintains an active medical license and holds a faculty appointment in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of California, San Diego.
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