They’re both uncomfortable, but one is fungal, and the other is bacterial, so they’re treated very differently.
If you happen to possess a vagina, chances are you’ve encountered the discomfort of a yeast infection or a urinary tract infection (UTI) at some point in your life, or you may inevitably face them in the future. According to the Office on Women’s Health (OASH), yeast infections afflict a staggering 75% of women, while more than half of all women will experience at least one UTI during their lifetime. It’s worth noting that individuals with penises can also be affected by these conditions, although they occur less frequently in this demographic.
Despite often being grouped together, yeast infections and UTIs are distinct infections with their own unique sets of symptoms and treatment approaches. Distinguishing between a yeast infection and a UTI is crucial for understanding the condition you’re dealing with and ensuring prompt relief.
If you’re uncertain about which one you might be experiencing, read on to explore the symptoms, causes, and specific treatments for each.
Yeast Infections and UTIs: What Are They?
While both yeast infections and UTIs can affect the genital area, their similarities largely end there. Dr. Felice Gersh, an ob-gyn and the founder/director of the Integrative Medical Group of Irvine in California, emphasizes that these conditions are fundamentally different, even though it’s possible to have both simultaneously.
A yeast infection arises from an overgrowth of fungus, with Candida being the most common culprit. This fungus typically coexists harmlessly on the skin and within moist regions of the body, including the vagina, mouth, throat, and gut. However, the balance of this fungus can be disrupted, leading to uncontrolled growth and the subsequent development of a yeast infection.
In contrast, UTIs are primarily caused by bacteria, with Escherichia coli (E. coli) being responsible for 80% to 90% of all cases, as reported by the National Kidney Foundation. E. coli is typically benign when it resides in its natural habitat, the anus. However, problems arise when it makes a short journey from the anus to the urethra, eventually infiltrating the urinary tract. UTIs occur when these bacteria establish colonies, often in the bladder, and multiply uncontrollably. If left untreated and allowed to progress, a UTI can reach the kidneys and inflict significant damage, as noted by the National Kidney Foundation. Consequently, it is crucial to address these infections promptly.
Symptoms of Yeast Infections vs. UTIs
While only a healthcare provider can offer a definitive diagnosis, each condition exhibits distinct sets of symptoms that can provide valuable clues about the type of infection you might be experiencing. Dr. Karen Eilber, a urologist and educator at Cedars Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles, explains that if your symptoms primarily revolve around urination, a UTI is more likely. UTI-related symptoms encompass:
- Frequent urination
- Urgent need to urinate
- Burning sensation during urination
- Pinkish, reddish, or cloudy urine
On the other hand, a yeast infection typically manifests as constant vaginal irritation, not just during urination. Symptoms of a yeast infection include:
- Thick, white vaginal discharge, akin to cottage cheese
- Itchy and irritated vulva and vagina
- Swollen and red vulva
- Burning sensation, especially during urination or intercourse
- Sore vagina
- Vaginal rash
- Watery vaginal discharge
If your primary symptom is a burning sensation during urination, it may be challenging to determine whether it’s a yeast infection or a UTI. Dr. Gersh points out that women with yeast infections may experience burning on the outside skin when urinating, which can lead to confusion. Nevertheless, additional symptoms are typically present, aiding in the identification of the underlying cause. In any case, consulting a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment is advisable.
Causes of Yeast Infections vs. UTIs
Understanding the factors that contribute to yeast infections and UTIs can shed light on why these conditions occur. Let’s delve into what leads to each of these troublesome infections.
Yeast infections primarily result from an overgrowth of fungus, a phenomenon that can be triggered by various factors. Risk factors identified by the Office of Women’s Health include:
- Use of antibiotics
- High-dose estrogen birth control
- Estrogen hormone therapy
- Pregnancy
- Compromised immunity (e.g., due to HIV or steroid use)
- Uncontrolled diabetes
These conditions create an environment conducive to the unbridled proliferation of yeast, ultimately culminating in an infection. Interestingly, there is some overlap in risk factors between yeast infections and UTIs. For instance, pregnancy, diabetes, and a weakened immune system can elevate the risk of both types of infections.
In addition to these shared risk factors, the risk of developing a UTI may be further exacerbated by:
- Sexual activity
- Recent sexual encounters with new partners
- Use of spermicide and/or diaphragms
- Menopause
- Abnormalities in the urinary tract
- Kidney stones or other obstructions
- Use of a catheter
- Recent urinary tract procedures or surgeries
These circumstances can either introduce unwanted bacteria into the urethra or compromise the body’s natural defenses against pathogens, increasing the likelihood of a UTI.
Yeast Infection vs. UTI Treatments
Fortunately, the treatment of yeast infections and UTIs is typically straightforward, although the specific treatments differ for each condition.
Treatment for a yeast infection often involves taking a single oral dose of fluconazole, an antifungal medication, or using antifungal creams, tablets, suppositories, or ointments applied to the vaginal area for several days to a week. According to the National Institutes of Health, symptoms usually begin to improve within a few days of initiating treatment.
On the other hand, antibiotics are the primary treatment for UTIs, as affirmed in a 2019 review published in the Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics. Generally, oral antibiotics such as nitrofurantoin or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole are prescribed for three to five days, as recommended by the American Urological Association (AUA). The good news is that one or two doses are often sufficient to alleviate symptoms, but it’s crucial to complete the entire antibiotic course to ensure the eradication of all unwanted bacteria.
For severe cases of yeast infections or UTIs, treatment may be more prolonged and complex. This could entail an extended course of antifungal medication (either oral or topical) for a severe yeast infection or an alternative type of medication. In instances where a UTI has progressed to the kidneys, treatment may involve intravenous antibiotics administered in a hospital setting, followed by two weeks of oral antibiotics, as outlined by the AUA.
Preventing Yeast Infections and UTIs
While there are no foolproof methods to prevent yeast infections or UTIs altogether, certain practices can help mitigate the risk of both types of infections.
Avoiding irritating feminine products like douches, sprays, and scented tampons is recommended to prevent both UTIs and yeast infections, according to the Office of Women’s Health. Additionally, it’s advisable to refrain from prolonged baths and hot tubs. If you suspect that your choice of birth control is increasing your susceptibility to these infections, consider switching to an alternative method.
Moreover, there are specific strategies to reduce the risk of yeast infections and UTIs depending on your vulnerability to each. To minimize the risk of yeast infections, consider:
- Wearing breathable cotton underwear
- Avoiding tight undergarments, such as underwear or pantyhose
- Changing out of wet bathing suits or sweaty leggings promptly
- Only taking antibiotics as prescribed
For preventing urinary tract infections, you can try:
- Taking cranberry supplements (although their efficacy may vary among individuals, according to the Office on Women’s Health)
- Urinating both before and after sexual activity
- Staying well-hydrated
- Emptying your bladder regularly and avoiding prolonged periods of holding in urine
- Wiping from front to back after using the toilet
In conclusion, yeast infections and UTIs can both be distressing conditions that affect the genital area. However, distinguishing between these infections and seeking the appropriate treatment is essential for a speedy recovery and improved well-being. By understanding the unique characteristics, causes, and treatments of yeast infections and UTIs, individuals can take proactive steps to reduce their risk and address these infections promptly when they occur.