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Medically Written By: Dr. Wagener
Vaginal yeast infections and bladder infections are two common conditions affecting women. Yeast infections are called vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). When we say UTIs or urinary tract infections we commonly mean a bladder infection. Urinary tract infections can also refer to more serious infections of the kidneys or upper tract. Often the symptoms of a yeast infection and bladder infection are different, but they can overlap and make it hard to be certain, requiring a visit with your provider.
The top symptom that you may have a vaginal yeast infection is external or vulvar itching. Fungal infections can also cause vulvar burning, soreness, vulvar swelling, vaginal itching, irritation, and painful sex. Some women will feel dysuria or burning with urination, but it will be perceived as external rather than urethral. The vaginal discharge associated with a yeast infection is often thick, white, and clumpy, but minimal discharge can be present. Candida albicans causes 80 to 90% of vulvovaginal candidiasis. These infections can occur randomly, but there are some risk factors. Some of the risk factors include recent antibiotic use, pregnancy, diabetes, and health conditions that affect your immune system. Diagnosis usually involves the collection of a vaginal swab Yeast infection treatment can include over-the-counter vaginal creams and prescription medications which include oral antifungals and vaginal creams. Studies show that self-diagnosis is often wrong in women who have never had a previous infection. A correct self-diagnosis ranged from 11-34%. Treating the wrong condition can delay treatment of a more serious condition or cause side effects. If you have severe symptoms, recurrent infections of 3 or more in a year, serious health conditions, or an infection that is not candida albicans you may need a different treatment protocol than an uncomplicated yeast infection. If you have severe symptoms including fissuring or cracks in the skin, you should see your provider. Fissuring could be from a yeast infection, but it can also be caused by other infections and skin conditions.
The main symptom of a bladder infection is dysuria or painful urination. Other UTI symptoms include urinary urgency, urinary frequency, and pain in the lower abdomen above the pubic bone. Blood in the urine can also be caused by an infection, but this can also be a symptom of more serious conditions. Women who have bladder symptoms and vaginal discharge or vaginal irritation are more likely to have a bladder infection. A simple urine test is done to diagnose a bladder infection. Bladder infections are treated with antibiotics. Your provider can help you determine the best antibiotic based on your medical history and allergies. Please let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Phenazopyridine may relieve some of your symptoms until the antibiotics take effect. If you are not improving in 2 days with the antibiotics, please contact your provider. You should also notify your provider if you have fevers, chills, shakes (rigors), excessive fatigue, or flank pain. If there is blood in the urine test, you should have a follow-up test after treatment to make sure it resolves.
Unfortunately, bladder infections are more common in women due to the shorter urethra. Risk factors include spermicide use in the past year, a new sex partner in the past year, having a bladder infection before age 15, and having a mother with a history of UTIs. Preventive tips for UTIs include increasing your water intake. If you are using spermicides and a diaphragm, you may want to switch to another birth control method. Wiping from front to back and voiding after intercourse is often recommended. If you are in menopause, using vaginal estrogen can be helpful. There are also treatment options for women with recurrent UTIs. Recurrent UTIs are diagnosed when you have 2 or more infections in 6 months or 3 or more in a year.
At Women’s Health Specialist, our compassionate and knowledgeable physicians and staff are available to provide expert care and support for both urinary tract infections and yeast infections. We understand these conditions can be uncomfortable and concerning, which is why we offer comprehensive diagnostic services and personalized treatment plans. Our experienced healthcare provider can help determine whether you’re experiencing a UTI or yeast infection, and provide appropriate treatment options specific to your needs.