Yeast and bacterial infections will affect up to 75% of women at some point during their lifetime. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Candida (the fungus responsible for yeast infections) is normally present both inside the body and on the skin without causing any problems. Yeast infections can also occur in other areas of the body such as the mouth, or on the skin, not affecting women exclusively.
It is estimated that roughly 20% of women actually have Candida inside the vagina without experiencing any symptoms at all. Similar in presentation, and almost as common is the bacterial infection, Bacterial Vaginosis. Maintaining good health and hygiene can assist in preventing these types of infections from developing.
How Different Are They?
The two main types of vaginal infections have quite a bit in common when it comes to symptoms. However, fundamentally, they are different and require different courses of treatment. Normally, there is a healthy balance of yeast and bacteria in the vagina. A yeast infection, which is actually a fungal infection, develops when this balance is thrown off by something like medication, hormone imbalance, or changes in the immune system. Some women experience itching, pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse and / or urination, and abnormal discharge, while some won’t notice any symptoms whatsoever.
Bacterial Vaginosis, a bacterial infection, occurs when the balance of existing bacteria is disrupted causing an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. You probably recognize the name of the “good” bacteria normally present. Lactobacillus is the well-known strain we hear and read about so often that it’s found in some yogurts and probiotics. Research into the microbial fermentation process has shown that Bacterial Vaginosis is occasionally triggered by sexual activity, especially with a new partner. Less symptomatic than a yeast infection, BV sometimes presents with a thin discharge, but often there are no noticeable symptoms, and the infection clears up on its own within a few days or weeks. In contrast, only the mildest of yeast infections will resolve themselves.
When To See A Doctor
Laboratory testing is usually required to make a clear diagnosis, since symptoms are similar in many types of infections. Seeing a doctor is always recommended if you suspect you may have an infection, as it is easy to self-diagnose incorrectly. It is especially important to see your doctor if you are experiencing symptoms and: 1) are experiencing them for the first time, 2) are pregnant, or 3) have had recurring infections (four or more in a year) as this could be a sign of an underlying medical condition and may require more extensive treatment.
Many women prefer to try natural remedies when treating a yeast infection to avoid the possible side effects that come along with medications. These are not always as effective as prescription or over-the-counter medications, and should be discussed with a doctor beforehand. Natural remedies for Bacterial Vaginosis are an option as well, but come with the same disclaimer as those for a yeast infection, and should always be discussed with your doctor prior to treatment. Depending on the severity of the infection, and method of treatment, things should clear up in anywhere from one to two weeks. If not, go ahead and make that second appointment with your doctor, and most importantly: don’t be embarrassed.
