9 Conditions That Are Often Confused With Thrush

Thrush… ain’t nobody got time for that. Having a yeast infection is one of the most annoying things that can happen if you have a vagina.

But just because you think you have thrush doesn’t mean you actually do.

Common symptoms that women experience when they have thrush can include pain during sex or when peeing, vaginal irritation, itching, burning and discomfort, a thick white or watery vaginal discharge and redness around the vagina.

Some women will have all of these symptoms when they have thrush, others won’t. However, these symptoms don’t necessarily mean you have thrush, and can in fact be symptoms of other conditions.

It’s thought that around 50% of women treated for vaginal thrush actually don’t have it. And any relief gained through using over-the-counter thrush medication doesn’t necessarily mean you had thrush in the first place.

Here are some of the vaginal conditions that are commonly mistaken for thrush:

1. Bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an infection that’s caused by an overgrowth of bacteria that live in the vagina. Symptoms include vaginal discharge with a strong, fishy-smelling odour as well as pain when urinating. You should see a doctor for this, as you may need antibiotics.

2. An allergic reaction

Itching and irritation isn’t necessarily thrush. It could be caused by an allergic reaction to a number of things, including soaps and body wash, wipes, feminine hygiene products…and even your partner’s semen.

3. A sexually transmitted infection

STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea have several symptoms in common with thrush, including itching, irritation, inflammation and even discharge.

4. Trichomoniasis

This is an infection caused by a parasite and is usually spread through sex. Common symptoms include vaginal itching, burning, redness and swelling of the labia and an unpleasant smelling frothy green discharge.

5. Dermatitis of the vulval skin

This may happen either as a localised or part of a generalised eczema condition.

6. Herpes

Herpes often presents with painful genital sores, usually on the outer genitalia. However, this isn’t always the case, and you might have it inside the vagina, causing itching and burning.

7. Infection of the cervix

A cervical infection can trigger symptoms of burning or discharge when urinating or having sex.

8. Overproduction of vaginal acid

Vaginal skin can be irritated by increased vaginal acid, with intense soreness and burning in the vagina and surrounding area.

9. Your tampons

If you leave your tampon in for too long, you might find it causes irritation and a burning sensation.

If you aren’t 100% sure whether or not you have a yeast infection, you should see your doctor.

If you become concerned about any symptoms, please seek immediate medical attention we have some hotlines and suggested websites for further information and advice https://www.stayathomemum.com.au/my-kids/babies/important-hotlines-websites/

SAHM takes no responsibility for any illness, injury or death caused by misuse of this information. All information provided is correct at time of publication.