Spot the Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis, Yeast Infections, and Cytolytic Vaginosis

Experiencing any vaginal infection can feel frustrating – especially when it’s tough to find resources that support you along the way. That’s why we created this resource to help you understand the differences between these three vaginal conditions. 

Vaginal Yeast Infections, Bacterial vaginosis (BV), and Cytolytic vaginosis (CV) all occur within the vaginal environment but they are each caused by different microorganisms.

What's the difference between these infections?

BV

Caused by:

Most commonly due to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria called G. vaginalis (pictured)

Photo via CDC/ Joe Miller

Looks like:

Gray or white discharge

Feels like:

Itching or burning pain in the vagina, itching around the vagina, and a strong fishy-smelling odor

Yeast Infections

Caused by:

Up to 80% of yeast infections are commonly caused by an overgrowth of a type of yeast called Candida albicans. (pictured)

Photo via Cleveland Clinic

Looks like:

White, thick, cottage cheese-like discharge

Feels like:

Redness and swelling of the vulva, vaginal dryness, painful urination, and painful intercourse

CV

Caused by: an overgrowth of Lactobacilli bacteria in the vagina, that causes damage to the vaginal cells that may result in the breakdown of the cells.

Lactobacillus photo via Dr. Microbe/iStock/Getty Images Plus

Looks like: white vaginal discharge 

Feels like: painful intercourse, redness of the vulva, painful urination, vaginal itching 

*symptoms mimic that of yeast infections and they can often be misdiagnosed 

Treatment options

BV can be treated with antibiotics or boric acid and yeast infections can be treated with an antifungal or boric acid. CV can be treated by reducing the amount of Lactobacilli in the vagina by elevating vaginal pH. This is achieved by douching with a sodium bicarbonate solution or sodium bicarbonate sitz baths. Also you may also want to consider avoiding Lactobacilli containing probiotics.

Antifungals work by stopping fungus from multiplying and growing. There are multiple types of antifungal products that vary based on the type of infection and your doctor will pick the best option. Note that antifungals for yeast infections can be oral or vaginally inserted.

Boric Acid is an over-the-counter vaginal suppository treatment option for BV and yeast infections and is not to be taken orally. It works to help promote the proper acid balance in the vagina. 

How these infections may be interconnected

A healthy vaginal pH is moderately acidic. This just means that the healthy bacteria (lactobacilli) are doing their job to protect us against harmful bacteria/microorganisms. When vaginal pH is off balance, it could lead to infections or overgrowths of unhealthy bacteria. 

All of the conditions outlined in this article result from an imbalance of microorganisms that are normally present in the vagina. Taking proactive measures is key when you’re prone to vaginal imbalances. Learn more about how you can get proactive with your vaginal health in the Uqora Learning Center.