Understanding Common Infections

What is BV, yeast infections, and trichomoniasis?

Changes in discharge can sometimes signal an infection. Three of the most common are bacterial vaginosis (BV), yeast infections, and trichomoniasis. They’re different conditions, but they share overlapping symptoms — which is why they’re often confused.

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

• Cause: An imbalance in the vaginal microbiome, where protective Lactobacillus bacteria are reduced, allowing other bacteria to grow.

• Symptoms:

  • Thin, greyish or white discharge

  • Fishy odor, often stronger after sex

  • Mild irritation (but sometimes no symptoms at all)

• Prevalence: BV is the most common vaginal infection in women of reproductive age, affecting around 20–30% at any given time.

• Treatment: Antibiotics prescribed by a doctor (usually metronidazole or clindamycin). OTC products may support balance, but they don’t cure BV.

Yeast Infections (Candidiasis)

• Cause: Overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans, which normally lives in small amounts in the vagina.

• Symptoms:

  • Thick, white “cottage cheese-like” discharge

  • Intense itching or burning

  • Redness and swelling of the vulva

• Prevalence: About 75% of women will experience at least one yeast infection in their lifetime, and many will have recurrences.

• Treatment: Antifungal creams or suppositories (OTC or prescription). Severe or recurring cases may require oral antifungal medication from a doctor.

Trichomoniasis

• Cause: A sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis.

• Symptoms:

  • Frothy, yellow-green discharge

  • Strong odor

  • Itching, irritation, or pain during sex or urination

• Prevalence: Globally, trichomoniasis affects around 156 million people each year, making it one of the most common non-viral STIs (WHO estimate, 2022).

• Treatment: Requires prescription antibiotics (usually metronidazole). OTC products do not treat it.

Why correct diagnosis matters

Because symptoms overlap, self-diagnosis is tricky. For example, BV and yeast can both cause irritation, but require very different treatments. Studies show misdiagnosis rates of 40–50% when women guess based only on symptoms.

That’s why professional testing — or guided at-home kits that can distinguish between infections — is important.

Supporting yourself with clarity

These infections are common and treatable. Having one doesn’t mean you’re “unclean” — it means your microbiome has shifted. With the right care, balance can be restored quickly.

Santelle helps you understand your body’s signals, so you can approach treatment with confidence and peace of mind.