Yeast cells are naturally found in the vagina. Typically, beneficial vaginal bacteria help to limit the number of yeast cells to maintain a healthy balance. However, when yeast grows out of control, an infection can occur.
Yeast infections are often mistaken for other types of vaginal infections, including BV. To determine the difference between a yeast infection vs. BV, look for symptoms that are specific to yeast infections. One of the most common vaginal yeast infection symptoms is a thick white vaginal discharge, often with a cottage cheese-like consistency. This discharge may be odorless or have a slight yeasty smell similar to that of beer or bread. Other yeast infection symptoms, some of which are similar to other vaginal infections, including itching and irritation, a burning sensation, and redness or swelling of the vulva.
