What’s the difference between bacterial vaginosis (BV) and a yeast infection?

BV is caused by an imbalance of naturally occurring bacteria while yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of yeast in the vagina.

Yeast infection symptoms often include:

• Discomfort and itchiness around the vaginal opening
• Thick, white, cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge
• Painful urination
• Painful vaginal sex

BV symptoms often include:

• Thin, white, or gray vaginal discharge
• Unusual vaginal odor
• Itchiness around the vaginal opening
• Burning during urination