Things You Could Mistake for a Yeast Infection

Have you ever had or heard of a vaginal yeast infection Choma? It’s also commonly known as vaginal thrush. They are common and most women will get them at least once in their lives. However, because they are common and because some women do get yeast infections a few times, it’s easy to assume you have it when you actually have something else.   

The reasons you might get a vaginal yeast infection can vary from wearing the wrong underwear and stress to not changing your sanitary pads often enough. The symptoms of yeast infections are also quite similar to other infections that you could easily misdiagnose as a yeast infection. This article will explain a few of them to you.

First, let’s start with the common symptoms of yeast infections. They are:

• Itching
• Burning
• White, thick discharge from the vagina (might look similar to cottage cheese)
• Pain around your vagina
• Pain during sex
• Pain when peeing

Now here are other infections/conditions that might have some of those similar symptoms and are therefore confused for Yeast Infections:

Herpes

One of the main symptoms of herpes is painful genital sores which don’t only show up outside your genitals but inside the vagina too. This can cause pain and itchiness, which is a symptom of a yeast infection.

Read more about Herpes here.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis, also known as Trich, is not a very well-known Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI). Mainly because it doesn’t always show symptoms and can go undiagnosed for a long time.  Symptoms that do show up include itching, burning and thin discharge that could be clear, white, yellowish, or greenish.

Read more about Trich here.

Chlamydia and Gonorrhea

Even though Chlamydia and Gonorrhea also don’t really show up with symptoms, when they do the top sign is unusual discharge. When you experience unusual discharge it’s easy to immediately assume that it’s because of a yeast infection. Another symptom of Chlamydia and Gonorrhea that’s very similar to a yeast infection is a burning feeling during urination.

If left untreated, Chlamydia and Gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, which is an infection of the reproductive organs in women.

Read more about Chlamydia here and about Gonorrhea here.

Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial Vaginosis has symptoms that are very similar to yeast infections. Bacterial Vaginosis occurs because there is more “bad” bacteria than “good” bacteria. This can cause unusual discharge that is grey or greyish white and gives off a fishy smell. Just like a yeast infection it can also cause itching and burning in the vagina. Bacterial Vaginosis can be treated with antibiotics.  One way to avoid bacterial vaginosis is to practise good hygiene.

Read more about feminine hygiene here.

Allergic Reaction

The vagina is sensitive and allergic to certain products, which can result in a negative reaction - which is why it’s advised you use non-scented products and only water and mild soap to wash your vulva. If you’re allergic to certain soaps, lotions or creams that you use around your vulva, this can cause itching, burning and inflammation. If you’ve perhaps started using a new product and then noticed these symptoms, stop using the product and speak to your healthcare practitioner for advice on products and creams to use (if you need to use any).

Remember Choma, it’s important not to simply diagnose yourself every time you have an infection, itch, inflammation or pain in your vagina. Rather see your healthcare provider at your nearest clinic who can then get to the root of the problem and diagnose it properly, giving you the correct treatment and advice.

Do you need more advice on your health? Remember that you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657)