Vaginal discomfort can be frustrating and confusing. Two common culprits – Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) and thrush – often leave women wondering which condition they’re dealing with. While both can cause irritation and unusual vaginal discharge, they’re distinct infections requiring different treatments.
| Feature | Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) | Thrush (Candidiasis) |
| Cause | Imabalnce of natural bacteria | Overgrowth of yeast |
| Pain | Usually not painful | Can be painful, especially during sex |
| pH Level | Higher than normal (above 4.5) | Normal (3.8-4.5) |
| Recurrence | Common | Less common, but can recur |
| Symptoms | Thin, grey or white discharge Fishy smell, especially after sexual intercourse Mild irritation | Thick, white discharge, like cottage cheese Itching, burning sensation Redness, swelling |
| Risk Factors | Multiple sexual partners Douching Use of an IUD | Antibiotics High blood sugar Weakened immune system Hormone changes |
| Diagnosis | pH test Microscopic examination | Microscopic examination Culture test Symptoms evaluated |
| Prevention | Avoid douching Limit number of sexual partners Use condoms | Maintain good hygiene Wear breathable, cotton underwear Avoid scented hygiene products |
| Treatment | Antibiotics (e.g. metronidazole) Clindamycin | Antifungal medications (e.g. fluconazole) Topical antifungal creams |
| Complications | Increased risk of STIs Pelvic inflammatory disease | Rarely causes complications |
| Impact on pregnancy | Slight risk of premature birth or miscarriage | Generally not harmful, but may cause some discomfort |
The confusion between Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) and thrush is a common issue, as this uncertainty often stems from the similarity in some of their symptoms, particularly vaginal discomfort and unusual discharge. Both conditions can also share risk factors, like recent antibiotic use or hormonal changes.
Many women attempt to self-diagnose based on previous experiences or information found online, which can sometimes lead to misidentification. This is made more difficult by the fact that individual experiences can vary widely, and symptoms don’t always align with textbook descriptions. In some cases, it’s even possible to have both BV and thrush at the same time, making accurate self-diagnosis particularly challenging.
A general lack of awareness about the specific differences between these conditions contributes to the confusion. Many women may not be fully informed about the distinct characteristics of BV and thrush, and embarrassment or discomfort in discussing intimate health issues can lead to delayed professional diagnosis and treatment.
The availability of over-the-counter treatments for thrush may inadvertently encourage some women to assume they have thrush when they actually have BV. Both conditions can also recur, leading some to make assumptions based on previous experiences rather than current symptoms.
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal condition. It occurs when the balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted, leading to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria.
Many women with BV don’t experience symptoms, but when present, they typically include a thin, greyish-white discharge and a strong fishy odour, particularly after sex.
While not classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), sexual activity can increase the risk of developing BV. If left untreated, BV can increase the risk of contracting certain STIs and may lead to complications during pregnancy.
The exact cause of BV isn’t fully understood, but factors such as douching, having multiple sexual partners, or using an intrauterine device (IUD) can upset the vaginal balance and increase risk.
Thrush, also known as candidiasis, is a common yeast infection affecting many women in the UK. Thrush is caused by an overgrowth of Candida, typically Candida albicans, a naturally present bacteria in your vagina. It occurs when the balance of bacteria is disrupted, allowing Candida to multiply excessively. While not classified as a sexually transmitted infection, thrush can occasionally be passed during sex.
Symptoms of thrush often include vaginal itching, soreness, redness, swelling, a thick white discharge, and pain during sex or urination. Unlike bacterial vaginosis, thrush doesn’t usually cause a strong odour. Women of all ages can develop thrush, but it’s more common during pregnancy, in those with diabetes, or those with weakened immune systems.
Risk factors for developing thrush include recent antibiotic use, hormonal changes, and certain medical conditions like high blood sugar. Although uncomfortable, thrush is generally not serious for most people but can be more problematic for those with compromised immunity.
While it’s not always possible to completely prevent vaginal infections like Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) and thrush, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk:
Maintain proper hygiene by gently cleaning the genital area with warm water and unscented soap, and be careful not to use harsh scented products, as these can disrupt the natural bacterial balance. After activities that cause sweating, like swimming or exercising, it’s important to change out of wet or sweaty clothes quickly and dry the genital area thoroughly. Regularly change your tampons or pads during menstruation to maintain dryness, as excessive moisture can create an environment conducive to yeast growth.
Opt for breathable underwear, preferably made from cotton, and avoid tight-fitting synthetic materials that can trap moisture. Steer clear of scented hygiene products, bubble baths, and vaginal deodorants, as these can irritate the delicate vaginal area and disrupt its natural pH balance. When engaging in sexual activity, using condoms can help prevent the spread of yeast infections between partners, as well as maintaining your vaginal pH balance.
If you have diabetes, it’s essential to keep your blood sugar levels under control, as high sugar levels can promote yeast growth. Be cautious with antibiotic use, only taking them when necessary, as they can kill beneficial bacteria that keep Candida in check. If you’re prescribed antibiotics, consider taking probiotics alongside them to help maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms. Incorporating probiotic-rich foods or supplements into your diet can also promote a healthy vaginal environment, potentially reducing your risk of getting thrush.
Consider adding probiotic-rich foods or supplements to your diet to support a healthy vaginal bacterial balance. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management contribute to overall vaginal health, so if you smoke, quitting can be beneficial, as smoking has been linked to an increased risk of BV.
Remember, these preventive measures may not guarantee you won’t get BV or thrush. If you experience symptoms or have concerns, always see a GP or pharmacist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Before seeking the right treatment, it’s important to accurately identify whether you’re dealing with thrush or BV. The Canetest Self Test for BV and Thrush is an over-the-counter option that allows you to test for both conditions at home. While this can provide an initial indication, it’s always best to consult a GP or pharmacist for a definitive diagnosis, especially if symptoms persist or come back.
Antibiotics are typically required to treat BV. Zidoval (Metronidazole) is a prescription antibiotic gel applied directly to the vagina, usually once daily for 5 days. In more severe cases, oral metronidazole tablets may be prescribed, typically taken twice daily for 7 days. An over-the-counter option for managing BV is Canesbalance Vaginal Gel, which helps restore and maintain vaginal pH balance, potentially relieving symptoms and helping prevent recurrence.
Treating thrush often involves antifungal medications. Fluconazole tablets are an oral antifungal medication frequently prescribed as a single-dose treatment for uncomplicated thrush. Antifungal creams such as Daktarin and Daktacort can be applied directly to the affected area for topical treatment. These are available over the counter and are effective for mild to moderate cases of thrush. Another option is Canesten Combi, a combination pack containing an internal and external cream for thoroughly treating thrush symptoms.
At Click2Pharmacy, we understand the importance of quick, discreet, and effective treatment. That’s why we offer dedicated online clinics for both bacterial vaginosis and thrush, providing you with expert care from the comfort of your home.
Our online thrush clinic offers a range of medications suitable for treating oral, vaginal and penile thrush. You can easily purchase these products after a free consultation.
If you think you may be suffering from bacterial vaginosis, our online BV clinic provides access to prescription medications following a free consultation with a licensed pharmacist.
Visit our online BV and thrush clinics today to explore our range of products and services for vaginal health, with fast, discreet delivery straight to your door.
