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Women can experience embarrassment or awkwardness regarding BV and Thrush. Failure to conduct this results in conditions such as bacterial vaginosis (BV) and thrush which are characterised by unpleasant symptoms that frequently impact the quality of life. That’s why it is recommended to find a cure and help from a doctor immediately when things worsen.
Ever confronted the infection in your life? Bacterial vaginosis is an infection of the vagina by bacteria as a result of a change in the normal bacterial vaginal and female reproductive region. It is natural to confuse BV and thrush, but the symptoms of each can be very distinct in many cases. Inflammation and itching may be present in both infections, but BV is often characterised by a fishy smell of discharge, while thrush has no such discharge.
This blog is written for a specific purpose: to make it easier for you to think about your vaginal health. In this article, we will describe the differences between these two infections and help you to understand when to look for symptoms and when to seek medical help.
Stay till the end to get full guidelines.
What’s the Difference Between Thrush and BV?
As BV and thrush are two types of vaginal infections, their causes and symptoms are different. Although BV is associated with an alteration in the bacterial flora of the vagina, thrush results from excessive yeast. Symptoms also vary:
- Common BV symptoms are a greyish-thin discharge with a fishy smell.
- Yeast infection symptoms show thick, cottage choose-like discharge and itching.
Feeling BV or a yeast infection? consult the doctor for the right treatment.
What is Bacterial Vaginosis? |
What is Thrush? |
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Understating the meaning of bacterial vaginosis: BV or Bacterial vaginosis in women: BV refers to a disease of a common vaginal bacterial infection resulting from disruption to the normal bacterial flora of the vagina. This leaves the body vulnerable to more unhealthy bacteria. It leads to the overgrowth of unwanted bacteria. BV bacterial vaginosis is a condition that develops between sexual partners; having many contacts with different partners is likely to expose such a couple to such an infection without following standard precautions and measures. BV will lead to a fishy-smelling vaginal discharge, and this may be worse after having sex. |
Thrush, also considered a yeast infection, develops due to an undesirable presence of Candida Yeast, which is naturally present in the body. Pregnancy marks the outbreak of Candida yeasts, and our bodies balance the otherwise troubling with acids that differ in chemicals. However, some conditions make Candida grow uncomfortably, itchy, sore and thick with a white discharge. Learning about thrush signs, symptoms, and the measures to be taken towards its prevention is important for its prevention. People who have diabetes or AIDS or are taking drugs that suppress their immune systems are most at risk for developing thrush. |
Causes Risk Factors and Prevention Tips for Thrush
Common Cause of Thrush |
Risk Factor |
Prevention Tips |
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Antibiotics: Broad-spectrum antibiotics can destroy the good bacteria and thin the blood, which can kill the yeast’s natural enemy—good bacteria. |
Wearing Tight Clothing: Wearing tight clothes made from synthetic fabric reduces air circulation hence promoting yeast growth |
Wear Loose-Fitting Cotton Underwear: Cotton is a more breathable fabric that helps make the area around the vagina dry. |
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Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes during pregnancy, during the menopausal period, or while practising oral contraceptive pills also enhances the vulnerability of the vagina to yeast. |
Using Scented Hygiene Products: Scented soaps and other feminine products cause the vagina to lose its balance making it easier for thrush to develop. |
Avoid Scented Soaps or Washes: Choose using of non-fragrant and gentle soaps to avoid disruption of the vaginal ecosystem. |
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Weakened Immune System: Due to the weakened ability of the body to keep yeast overgrowth under control, an infection develops. |
Causes Risk Factors and Prevention Tips for Thrush
Common Cause of Thrush/ Thrush Discharge |
Risk Factor |
Prevention Tips |
|
Imbalance of Vaginal Bacteria: BV results from an alteration of the normal pH balance of bacteria in the vagina. The normal bacteria are overgrown by pathogenic bacteria. |
Unprotected Sex: discharge occurs as a result of unprotected sex; multiple partners means new bacteria are introduced. |
Avoid Douching: Avoid the use of douches on your intimate area since they eliminate good bacteria in your vagina and create an imbalance of the vaginal flora. |
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Douching: Douching washes out the beneficial germs that help guard against infections, thus raising the chances of getting BV. |
Using Scented Feminine Hygiene Products: Like in the case of thrush, soaps, sprays, and feminine hygiene products continue to disrupt the vaginal. |
Practice Safe Sex: Making love while using a condom reduces the chances of bringing in bacteria which leads to the displacement of the healthy bacteria. |
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New or Multiple Sexual Partners: Sexual activity with different or multiple people exposes the vagina to new bacteria that cause disturbances hence BV. |
Intrauterine Device (IUD): There is evidence that indicates that extending the use of an IUD for birth control might increase the likelihood of getting BV. |
Limit Scented Products: Avoid using scented soaps or bubble baths when washing the vaginal area in order to promote its normal bacterial flora. |
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Smoking: Cigarette smoking has also been associated with the risk of BV, perhaps because it suppresses the immune system in addition to changing the vaginal bacterial flora. |
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Stopping smoking and having a healthy immune system can lower your risk of acquiring BV. |
When Do You Need a Doctor?
BV and thrush make the way hard to go ahead carrying the infection. You might have to take extra care for any unusual vaginal bacterial vaginosis discharge, persistent symptoms, or signs of both thrush and BV; it's time to see a doctor. BV discharge look like a strong fishy smell after intercourse. Getting the right treatment early can prevent complications.
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How to know if you have BV?
If you're experiencing some random and unusual changes in your vaginal health, it the time to take it seriously and opt for the diagnosis. Without regular checkups and urgent prevention techniques, it can be fatal and lead to severe conditions. How do you know if you have bacterial vaginosis: Following the below bacterial vaginosis symptoms in women can easily identify the infection and the detection of BV.
- Thin, watery, or greyish discharge
- Strong fishy smell, especially after sex
- Mild itching or irritation
What Causes My Bacterial Vaginal Discharge?
Vaginal discharge is caused by the improper growth of natural bacteria that cause the infection. BV and thrush are two common causes that we have termed in the blog as well.
Frequent douching or using harsh vaginal washes.
- Having multiple sexual partners.
- Smoking affects the natural bacterial environment.
- Using scented hygiene products that can irritate the vaginal lining.
- Other conditions like sexually transmitted infections or poor hygiene can also cause abnormal vaginal discharge. If the discharge is accompanied by other symptoms like itching, burning, or discomfort, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis.
What are the Thrush Symptoms Vaginal?
Thrush symptoms for vaginal bacteria may involve:
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Thick white discharge that looks like cottage cheese |
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Vaginal itching and soreness |
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Pain during sex or urination |
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Swelling around the vaginal area |
Can Thrush Cause Blood in Urine?
Thrush results in irritation, which influences urination it does not cause blood in urine but impacts it in other ways. It is recommended that, in case you see blood in your urine, you should seek medical attention.
Can You Have Both BV and Thrush at the Same Time?
Yes, it is possible to have both BV and a yeast infection simultaneously. The reason for this is that they have different pathogens involved in this. A treatemetn is required for handling these issues.
Treatment of BV
Treatment usually involves antibiotics, such as metronidazole, which can be prescribed as pills or a vaginal gel.
Treatment of Thrush
Vaginal Yeast infection treatment typically includes antifungal medications, available as creams, canesbiotics intimate care pessaries, or oral tablets. These help eliminate the yeast overgrowth and ease symptoms.
Other Related Infections
Other conditions, like cystitis, have symptoms like BV and thrush, such as discomfort or unusual discharge. Vaginal thrush and bacterial vaginosis symptoms in women may overlap with other infections. In case you have observed the same symptoms, consult the doctor or book a consultation with online pharmacy 4u for quick help.
Guidelines for Prevention of Both BV and Thrush
To reduce the risk of developing either BV or thrush, consider these tips:
- Manage your menstrual cycle properly using unscented sanitary products.
- Avoid using harsh vaginal washes; stick to plain water.
- Practice safe sex and avoid having multiple sexual partners.
- Quit smoking, as it can affect your body’s natural balance.
Summary
BV and thrush are common infections in women that can affect your health and prevent you from carrying out daily tasks. While the symptoms and differentiation between thrush and BV may vary, both ultimately result in unwanted conditions that you really want to avoid.
In this blog, we have covered the answers to questions you might have about how to keep bacterial growth in balance to avoid conditions like BV, thrush, and cystitis. You might fall into an unwanted condition and want to get rid of it, and for that, you may need consultation and a proper check-up. We provided details about the differences between the two infections and how you can relate to and diagnose them by following the symptoms.
If you find yourself experiencing any symptoms mentioned in this blog and are unsure whether you need to see a doctor, you can book a free consultation with Online Pharmacy 4U at a flexible time. Online Pharmacy 4U is a popular primary care physician serving the entire UK. Time is money, and you don’t want to waste it. At the same time, health is wealth, so preserve it at any cost.
FAQs
What is a Yeast Infection?
A yeast infection is an inflammation of the vagina as a result of an overgrowth of a type of fungus called Candida. Common signs are a rash, inflammation, and thick white or greyish discharge.
How Worse Can These Infections Get?
If BV is left untreated, the woman can be at risk of getting pelvic inflammatory disease and in cases where thrush is not treated, the woman is bound to be experiencing the infection on and off.
What is Cystitis?
Cystitis is inflammation of the bladder, often caused by a bacterial infection. It can lead to symptoms like a burning sensation during urination.
What is Causing My Unusual Vaginal Discharge?
Abnormal vaginal discharge might be due to a number of causes, not limited to bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections or other vaginal infections.
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