Is it fungal yeast or bacteria?

Two of the most common types of organisms that can cause infection and irritation in the vagina are yeasts and bacteria, but what exactly are they and how do they differ? Naturopath Jennifer McLennan explains.

All women have a vaginal discharge which varies depending on the phase of her menstrual cycle. However, a normal vaginal discharge should not cause any irritation. Any change to appearance or odour may indicate there is an issue which needs addressing by your healthcare professional. Here's how to identify some common causes.

Thrush yeast infections

Up to 75% of women will suffer from vaginal thrush in their lifetime. Thrush is caused by an overgrowth of one of the most common organisms found in the vagina: Candida albicans. This normally dormant yeast, which also lives in the gut, can overgrow and cause irritation and infection in the vagina and externally around the vulva.

Causes

There is no specific cause for the occurrence of thrush, however the most common reasons for thrush to develop are:

• Antibiotics which suppress the growth of ‘good’ bacteria in the vagina, providing an opportunity for an overgrowth of candida.
• High oestrogen levels, such as those found in women who are pregnant and women who take the oral contraceptive pill, increase the amount of glucose in the vagina which is the fuel that candida feeds on.
• Poor immunity, such as in diabetes and other immune system disorders (thyroid and autoimmune diseases) can lead to candida growth in the vagina.

Symptoms

• Irritation in the form of itching and burning in and around the vagina which can worsen pre-menstrually
• Discharge that looks like white cottage cheese in appearance, but can vary from watery to thick
• Burning and stinging when urinating or during intercourse.

Prevention and treatment

• Ensure your sleep and immune system are supported and try to manage your stress
• Reduce sugar and refined carbs to stop feeding the bad bacteria
• Eat immune boosting foods including plenty of fresh fruit and veges while avoiding yeast and fermented foods including mushrooms
• Increase probiotic rich foods like probiotics and anti-fungal nutrients
• For more advice about preventing and treating thrush, see Jennifer’s related article: Preventing thrush.

Bacterial infections

Bacterial infections accounts for the many of the vaginal discharges experienced by women.

As opposed to thrush, this is caused by a non-specific bacterial overgrowth in the vagina. The normal flora of the vagina, mostly consisting of Lactobacilli bacteria, are overgrown by a mixture of other bacteria, causing the symptoms.

Causes

Bacterial imbalances in the vagina that lead to issues are not well understood. Although infections such as bacterial vaginosis is not a sexually transmitted disease, it does seem to present commonly in women who have a new partner. Safe sex practices are recommended to protect against infection.

Symptoms

The presentation of bacterial infections can be similar to thrush which is why it’s important to go to your healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis, as the treatment is different to that for thrush.

Irritation, burning and redness are present in 50% of women, however many women are asymptomatic. Other common symptoms are:

• Watery, thin and greyish discharge
• Malodorous, ‘fishy’ smelling discharge

Prevention and treatment

• Supplement with probiotics, as these have been shown to improve symptoms and help prevent unhealthy vagina flora balance
• Safe sexual practices are recommended as infection is often linked with sexual activity, especially with a new partner
• It’s always best to check with your healthcare professional about prevention and treatment particularly if symptoms persist and infection reoccurs

Did you know?

Bacteria in the vagina produce lactic acid which keeps the vagina acidic. This acidic environment acts to keep the vagina free from infection.