Have you ever felt pain and discomfort down there and wondered what could be causing it? When you look it up on the internet, you will get different answers. The most common issues that often pop up are “yeast infection” and “UTI”. The symptoms of both might feel similar, but they are different. Let’s learn more about UTI vs yeast infection.

UTI Vs. Yeast Infection: Understanding the Difference

Bacteria, mainly E. coli, cause urinary tract infections. UTI occurs when this bacterium reaches the bladder through the urethra and starts multiplying. The infection occurs in your urethra and bladder, but may travel up the urinary tract and reach the kidneys. Although both men and women can get UTI, women are more vulnerable to the infection as they have a shorter urethra.

Yeast infections are linked to the overgrowth of Candida. This fungus is found in small amounts in the vagina, but if the balance of good bacteria is disrupted, the yeast may grow in large amounts, causing an infection. Yeast infections, unlike UTIs, are confined to the vagina.

Symptoms of UTI and Yeast Infection

The symptoms of UTI and yeast infections can overlap, but a few noticeable symptoms set these two infections apart, making it easier for your healthcare provider to diagnose them. The key difference between the two lies in the parts they affect. Yeast infection affects your vagina, while UTI occurs in the urinary tract.

Symptoms of UTI
  • Painful urination
  • Pain in the lower abdomen
  • Burning sensation when urinating
  • Frequent urge to urinate
  • Foul smell, cloudy urine, sometimes blood in the urine
  • Frequent bathroom trips, especially at night
  • Pelvic pressure
Symptoms of Yeast Infection
  • A burning sensation with itching in the vagina
  • A thick, white discharge from the vagina, which might resemble cottage cheese
  • Swelling and redness around your vulva
  • Irritation that makes sexual intercourse painful
  • Pain during urination (due to the swelling and irritation in the vagina)

Diagnosis Methods

UTI Diagnosis

For a UTI diagnosis, you may need to provide a urine sample in a container. The doctor checks the sample under a microscope to find blood or bacteria. 

Yeast Infections

The only way to know if it’s caused by the Candida fungus is by visiting a gynaecologist in Thane. They might send the sample of the discharge to the lab to diagnose Candida or other possible infections.

Treatment Approaches

UTI

Since it’s a bacterial infection, treatment involves a course of antibiotics with painkillers to ease your symptoms. It’s recommended to drink plenty of water so the bacteria can be flushed out of your system.

Yeast Infection 

For a yeast infection, you may need anti-fungal topicals and oral medication. Avoid scented soaps, intercourse, and feminine hygiene sprays until the infection clears. Although over-the-counter anti-fungal medication may help in some cases, if the infection is severe, it’s best to consult a gynecologist.

Conclusion

While both may sound similar, UTI causes urgency and burning sensation in urination, while yeast infection causes redness, swelling, and irritation around the vagina. Both require a visit to the gynecologist and a proper course of treatment.