How can I tell the difference between BV and yeast infection?

One easy way to distinguish between these two conditions is the smell or lack thereof. Discharge from BV has a distinctive fishy odor, while yeast infection discharge tends to be odorless. BV discharge is also fairly thin, while yeast infection discharge has a thick consistency often resembling cottage cheese.
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Does BV itch like a yeast infection?

BV is associated with a foul, “fishy” vaginal odor, while most women don't notice an odor with a yeast infection. A yeast infection also typically causes itching, particularly in younger women, and may include a burning sensation, especially during urination. In general, BV doesn't cause itching or burning.
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How do I know its bacterial vaginosis?

How do I know if I have BV?
  1. A thin white or gray vaginal discharge;
  2. Pain, itching, or burning in the vagina;
  3. A strong fish-like odor, especially after sex;
  4. Burning when peeing; and.
  5. Itching around the outside of the vagina.
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Do BV and yeast infections feel the same?

Both these forms of vaginitis are typically accompanied by vaginal itching, burning sensations and discomfort, with a few key differences in symptoms. There is one typical, major difference between symptoms of a yeast infection vs BV: discharge color. Beyond that, the other key difference is the odor.
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Will BV or yeast infection go away on its own?

Bacterial vaginosis often clears up on its own. But in some women it doesn't go away on its own. And for many women it comes back after it has cleared up. Antibiotic treatment works for some women but not others.
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Bacterial Vaginosis vs Yeast Infection | Madge the Vag | Scary Mommy



What does BV smell like?

Period smells “fishy”

This odor is most often attributed to bacterial vaginosis, a type of infection. It's also a lot stronger than a normal period smell. You may have bacterial vaginosis if the “fishy” smell is accompanied by: burning, especially during urination.
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Can Monistat treat BV?

Unfortunately, there are no over-the-counter products like Monistat that will do the trick. (Monistat is a treatment for yeast infections—it won't do anything to stop the itching and clear up your condition if what you really have is BV.)
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Is BV itchy?

Symptoms - The primary symptom of BV is an abnormal, odorous vaginal discharge. The fish-like odor is noticeable especially after intercourse. Women with BV also may have burning during urination or itching around the outside of the vagina, or both.
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How long does bacterial vaginosis last?

While the infection may go away on its own, most doctors use antibiotics to treat it. You may have been prescribed pills or vaginal cream. With treatment, bacterial vaginosis usually clears up in 5 to 7 days.
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Can Monistat make BV worse?

For example, if you think you have a yeast infection but you actually have bacterial vaginosis, an over-the-counter yeast infection medication will make it worse because it allows the bacteria to bloom even more.
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What happens if bacterial vaginosis goes untreated?

Most often, BV does not cause other health problems. However, if left untreated, BV may increase your risk for: Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV. Pelvic inflammatory disease where BV bacteria infect the uterus or fallopian tubes.
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How can you get rid of a bacterial infection without antibiotics?

Seven best natural antibiotics
  1. Garlic. Cultures across the world have long recognized garlic for its preventive and curative powers. ...
  2. Honey. Since the time of Aristotle, honey has been used as an ointment that helps wounds to heal and prevents or draws out infection. ...
  3. Ginger. ...
  4. Echinacea. ...
  5. Goldenseal. ...
  6. Clove. ...
  7. Oregano.
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What Colour is BV discharge?

BV is linked to douching and having more than one sexual partner. The discharge tends to be grayish-white and has a fishy odor.
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Is it possible to have BV and yeast at the same time?

It's possible to have a yeast infection and BV at the same time. If you have symptoms of both conditions, see a doctor for diagnosis.
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What looks like a yeast infection but isn t?

Conditions that can mimic a yeast infection

These include trichomoniasis, herpes and genital warts. A skin reaction or allergy: Some sanitary products can cause a reaction, as can feminine hygiene products, bath soap, or even a change in laundry soap.
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What happens if you treat a yeast infection but don't have one?

If you don't really have a yeast infection, antifungals won't help you get better. They can actually prolong the real problem, because while you'll think you're treating the issue, the real cause will continue to develop.
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Can I treat BV without antibiotics?

The primary treatment course for BV is antibiotics. However, some people may wish to treat the condition at home. Options for home treatments include practicing safe hygiene, using barrier protection during intercourse, and taking probiotic supplements. BV is a common condition and typically is not cause for concern.
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Is Cranberry good for BV?

There is some evidence suggesting that women taking vitamin supplementation show decreased rates of BV6. Probiotics have also been found to provide relief when used in combination with systemic antibiotic therapy15. Anecdotal evidence suggests that cranberry juice may help remedy symptoms.
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Why am I always wet down there and smelly?

Bacterial vaginosis is one of the most common causes of a smelly vagina, affecting 15% to 50% of women of reproductive age. 'It's a condition where there's an imbalance in the vaginal flora,' Dr Rosén explains. 'The first symptom is often a fishy smell, which can progress to a frothy, grey or green-ish discharge.
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How do you tell if something is wrong down there?

Consult your health care provider if you notice:
  1. A change in the color, odor or amount of vaginal discharge.
  2. Vaginal redness or itching.
  3. Vaginal bleeding between periods, after sex or after menopause.
  4. A mass or bulge in the vagina.
  5. Pain during intercourse.
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What can I take for BV over-the-counter?

There are no over-the-counter products to treat bacterial vaginosis (BV). Avoid using douches or products meant for yeast infections, which could make BV worse. See your healthcare provider for treatment.
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How can I restore the pH balance in my vagina fast?

How to restore your vaginal pH naturally
  1. Consider using boric acid suppositories. ...
  2. Incorporate more probiotics into your diet. ...
  3. Consider taking garlic tablets. ...
  4. Find ways to destress. ...
  5. Cut back or quit smoking. ...
  6. Be mindful of how you clean your vulva and vagina. ...
  7. Pay attention to your underwear. ...
  8. Use barrier methods during sex.
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Can I buy metronidazole over-the-counter?

No, you cannot buy metronidazole over the counter because you need a prescription to buy it.
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Can other people smell my BV?

Can other people smell it too?" Dr. Kate, a gynecologist, answers: "No, all vaginas don't smell, or taste, the same...but they do all smell. Every woman has a different musky scent, and we tend to be very attuned to our own smell, even when no one else is aware of it.
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Why does it smell down there even after a shower?

If you notice a fishy odor from your vagina or vaginal discharge, it may be caused by sweating, a bacterial infection, or even your genetics. The most common is cause is vaginitis, an infection or inflammation of the vagina. The odor of your vagina varies throughout your menstrual cycle.
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