Do I have a yeast or urinary tract infection?

Adam

Leg. Doctor

Yeast infection and urinary tract infection are two common infections that can affect women of all ages. The symptoms are similar, which means that it can sometimes be difficult to tell them apart. However, it is important to know the difference between a yeast infection and a urinary tract infection in order to get the right treatment. In this article, we will talk more about these two infections, so that you as a woman can have a better understanding of symptoms and treatment.

Cause and symptoms of fungus in the vagina

Vaginal yeast infection is caused by an overgrowth of Candida. Candida is a fungus that is found naturally in the vagina in small amounts. Under certain conditions, there is a risk of overproduction of the fungus, which leads to infection. Antibiotic treatment, hormonal changes (just before menstruation or during pregnancy), small wounds as a result of rubbing (e.g. cycling) or a weakened immune system are all factors that can contribute to fungal infection. This type of fungal infection is also called candida vulvovaginitis or candida vaginitis.

The symptoms of fungus include irritation, itching, burning, redness and whitish discharge. Some women may experience difficulty urinating or having sex due to pain.

If you recognize these symptoms, you can buy over-the-counter treatment at the pharmacy (cream, vaginal suppositories or tablets). If the treatment does not help or if you have recurring symptoms, it is important to confirm that it is fungus that is causing your symptoms. There are other diseases that can cause itching and burning in the abdomen, including urinary tract infection.

If you are pregnant, you should talk to your midwife or doctor to get the right examination and treatment.

Cause and symptoms of urinary tract infection

A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria reach the bladder and cause inflammation. The symptoms of urinary tract infection in women include burning when you urinate, needing to urinate frequently, sometimes blood in the urine and pain in the lower abdomen. If you experience these symptoms, you can easily get help and treatment here on this page.

What is the difference between yeast and urinary tract infection?

The difference between yeast and urinary tract infection is that a yeast infection affects the vagina, while a urinary tract infection affects the bladder and urinary tract. Urinary tract infection is caused by bacteria and fungal infection by candida (yeast), which is why antibiotics do NOT help with fungal infection. It is therefore important to know the symptoms and the differences.

Fungus causes itching, irritation and discomfort in the abdomen. The labia become red and irritated and the discharge can sometimes be experienced as whiter and gritty. Because of the irritation on the labia, it may also sting when you urinate. Vaginal intercourse usually causes burning and discomfort in case of fungal infection, which is why the recommendation is to refrain as long as you experience discomfort.

Fungus in the vagina is very common and is not contagious either when going to the toilet or during intercourse. The fungal infection also does not spread to other parts of the body if you do not have a weakened immune system, due to, for example, chemotherapy or immunosuppressive drugs.

Urinary tract infection causes symptoms such as burning when you urinate, the feeling of having to urinate frequently, pain in the lower abdomen and sometimes blood in the urine. Urinary tract infection does not involve the vagina or labia and should not cause itching. A strong urinary tract infection can cause a feeling of sickness, fatigue and general malaise, which is very unusual with a fungal infection. A urinary tract infection can also spread up to the upper urinary tract, which is a serious condition.

Preventive measures to avoid fungus in the vagina and urinary tract infection

There are certain preventive measures that can reduce the risk of getting vaginal yeast infection or urinary tract infection. Regarding fungus in the abdomen, instead of soap, you should use an oil when you wash yourself that does not dry out the mucous membranes in the abdomen in the same way that soap can do.

When it comes to urinary tract infection, you can prevent it by drinking plenty of water to flush out the urinary tract. Remember to wipe yourself from front to back to avoid bringing bacteria from the gut to the urethra. It is also good to urinate immediately after intercourse in order to get rid of any bacteria that have reached the urethra.

When should you seek care?

Yeast and urinary tract infection can cause great discomfort and suffering for women, but knowing the difference between the two can help you get the right treatment quickly and get rid of your problems.

If you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection, you can contact us at Recetas Medicas and get quick help and treatment. However, if, in addition to the usual symptoms of a urinary tract infection, you feel chills, fever and pain in the back/flank, we recommend that you immediately contact the health center or seek emergency care as it may be a case of renal pelvis inflammation.