Yeast infections can be quite uncomfortable and frustrating to deal with and manage on your own. You may have a lot of questions popping up if and when you get one such as can a yeast infection cause bleeding?
Here we’ll provide answers to this question as well as address your treatment options and some other possible causes of your bleeding. If you feel you need to be connected to an online doctor right away then visit our get started page on our website to begin the process.
Table of Contents
- What Is a Yeast Infection?
- What are the Common Symptoms of a Yeast Infection?
- Does a Yeast Infection Cause Bleeding or Spotting?
- Other Possible Causes for Your Bleeding
- When to See a Doctor?
- Key Takeaways
What Is a Yeast Infection?
Let’s first take a closer look at what a yeast infection is exactly and what can cause it. In most cases, the fungus candida albicans is the cause of your yeast infection. It occurs when you have an overgrowth of Candida in your vagina.
Keep in mind that it is not considered or labeled to be a type of sexually transmitted infection or disease. You do not have to have sex to get it. Also, once you have it the itching can be quite unbearable so it might motivate you to want to seek treatment anyway instead of letting it resolve itself.
What are the Common Symptoms of a Yeast Infection?
There are some common symptoms of a yeast infection to be aware of. These include but are not limited to:
- Watery vaginal discharge
- Redness and swelling of the vulva
- A burning sensation while peeing or during intercourse
- Vaginal rash
- Genital soreness
- Intense itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva
- A vaginal discharge that is odor-free, white, and thick similar to that of cottage cheese
In some cases, the symptoms may be more severe such as mood swings and headaches as well as extensive redness and itching that can lead to a break in the skin and, in turn, a skin infection. You’d likely notice bleeding in this circumstance and would want to make sure you get it cleared up so this doesn’t get worse.
Does a Yeast Infection Cause Bleeding or Spotting?
Another primary symptom to know about is that you have bleeding or spotting. The good news is that it isn’t anything to worry about, in most instances. However, if you notice bleeding that’s heavy or doesn’t stop and clear up after the infection goes away then there may be another underlying condition present.
You’ll likely have a small amount of bleeding from a yeast infection and can treat it with antifungal medications which can help. If you have spotting or small amounts of bleeding then all you’ll want to do is wear a panty liner that will accommodate it.
There could be more bleeding happening if you have had complications in the past with your yeast infections or recurring yeast infections, for example. The medication that you are prescribed for your yeast infection can even potentially cause you to have some bleeding, so don’t panic.
Other Possible Causes for Your Bleeding
In the situation where you notice heavy bleeding or bleeding that doesn’t go away after you treat your yeast infection and it clears up, then there may be some other possible causes for your bleeding. Here is a list of what some of these could be so you can take action if necessary. However, it’s always best to seek medical attention from a provider or clinician with DrHouse who can diagnose you properly and prescribe medication if necessary.
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
One possible cause for your bleeding may be bacterial vaginosis or BV. You might get it if you have an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. If you are premenopausal then you should know that it’s a common cause of the vaginal discharge. It can also cause spotting or bleeding. Some symptoms to be mindful of are itching, a fishy odor, burning when urinating, and gray or white discharge.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
It’s also possible you have a urinary tract infection or UTI instead of a yeast infection, which can cause spotting. The cause behind it is usually Escherichia coli (E. coli) and can impact your kidneys, urethra, bladder, or ureters. Some other common symptoms besides spotting are cloudy and strong-smelling urine, frequent urination, burning during urination, and pelvic pain around the public bone.
Trichomoniasis
Consider if you have Trichomoniasis if you have spotting or bleeding showing up as well. This is an STI that is commonly passed between partners when not using a condom. The additional symptoms that come with Trich are itching, swelling, pain during sex, and green or yellow discharge.
Other Types of STIs
There are other types of STIs that could be the cause of your bleeding and spotting too. While bacterial infections and STIs such as gonorrhea and chlamydia don’t usually come with or show symptoms, they can turn into pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) if the STIs are left untreated. With PID, you may notice bleeding and spotting as well as abnormal discharge, pain during sex, and bleeding after sex.
When to See a Doctor?
If you’re seeing and having bleeding outside of your normal menstrual cycle or period then it’s always a good idea to see a doctor. There may be other reasons for your abnormal genital tract bleeding. While a yeast infection could be the culprit of your bleeding and spotting, you now know that it might also be due to a number of other causes and issues.
Always see a doctor if and when:
- You have other unusual symptoms
- You have a lot of regular and heavy bleeding
- You get a fever
If you’re treating a yeast infection with over-the-counter ointments and it doesn’t go away or this is your first yeast infection and aren’t even sure if that’s what it is, then also speak with a doctor as soon as possible. Yeast infections can and should be treated in most cases so that it doesn’t bring about other complications or worsen and spread to other parts of your body.
Contact the clinicians at DrHouse who are always available and ready to help treat your yeast infection, or let you know what else may be going on and offer a solution that has you feeling better fast.
FAQ
Can a Prolonged Yeast Infection Cause Bleeding?
Yes, a moderate or severe yeast infection that’s left untreated, or if you have complicated and recurring yeast infections then you may have bleeding. However, bleeding and spotting can also come about from certain treatments or be due to tears and cracks in the vaginal tissue from itching.
Can a Yeast Infection Cause Bleeding During Pregnancy?
If you are pregnant and experience bleeding or a yeast infection then always get in touch with a doctor. There are several types of infections or STIs that can irritate your cervix and lead to bleeding. It can be especially concerning if you are pregnant so always get advice and input from your doctor in this situation.
Can a Yeast Infection Cause Bleeding After Menopause?
While it should never cause heavy bleeding, a yeast infection can cause bleeding after menopause. It typically involves spotting or light bleeding, so if this isn’t the case then contact a doctor right away.
Can a Yeast Infection Treatment Cause Bleeding?
Yes, there are cases and instances where treatments for yeast infections cause bleeding. It can be a side effect of the medication that was prescribed. Creams and topicals may irritate your vagina and interrupt your pH balance. Once again, it should be spotting or light bleeding so if it’s heavy then contact a doctor and notify them.
Can a Yeast Infection Cause Heavy Bleeding Between Periods?
Bleeding is just one symptom that can arise when you have a yeast infection. It may be a different underlying condition if the bleeding is heavy and doesn’t go away after the yeast infection is treated and clears up. See a doctor if you experience heavy bleeding between periods because it can potentially be from a different health issue or a sign of another infection.
Key Takeaways
The short answer is, yes, a yeast infection can cause bleeding. However, always keep in mind that it should be light bleeding or spotting going on. If you ever experience heavy bleeding outside of your period or menstrual cycle or it seems odd to you then contact DrHouse right away to let a provider know what is happening so you can be treated properly. It is possible other causes may be why the bleeding is occurring and these will need to be diagnosed and treated properly as well.
The good news is that when you contact DrHouse you’ll be connected with a board-certified clinician in under 15 minutes. It won’t be necessary to leave your home and commute to a doctor’s office where you usually have to sit in a waiting room for an extended period. We treat a wide variety of conditions and health issues so don’t be afraid to reach out and provide your information so you can be connected to an online doctor right away.
Sources:
- Yeast infection (vaginal). Mayo Clinic. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yeast-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20378999
- Vaginal Candidiasis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/candidiasis/genital/index.html
- SALAKI, JOHN S. M.D.; LOURIA, DONALD B. M.D.; CHMEL, HERMAN M.D.. Fungal and Yeast Infections of the Central Nervous System: A CLINICAL REVIEW. Medicine 63(2):p 108, March 1984.
- Ayşe GÜLMEZ. GENITAL INFECTIONS IN PREGNANCY AND BLEEDING. CURRENT APPROACHES IN OBSTETRIC HEMORRHAGES. Chapter 9. Available from: https://iksadyayinevi.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/CURRENT-APPROACHES-IN-OBSTETRIC-HEMORRHAGES.pdf
- Annekathryn Goodman. Abnormal genital tract bleeding. Clinical Cornerstone, Volume 3, Issue 1, 2000, Pages 25-35, ISSN 1098-3597. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1016/S1098-3597(00)90019-X.
- Pelvic Pain and Vaginal Bleeding. CDEM. Available from: https://www.saem.org/about-saem/academies-interest-groups-affiliates2/cdem/for-students/online-education/m3-curriculum/group-focused-chief-complaint-history-physical-examination-and-differential-diagnosis/pelvic-pain-and-vaginal-bleeding
- Vincent Ball, Diane Devita, Warren Johnson. How to Evaluate Vaginal Bleeding and Discharge?. Emergency Medicine. 2009 April. Pages 27-48. Available from: https://cdn.mdedge.com/files/s3fs-public/Document/September-2017/041040027.pdf
- Denisse Vázquez-González, Ana María Perusquía-Ortiz, Max Hundeiker, Alexandro Bonifaz. Opportunistic yeast infections: candidiasis, cryptococcosis, trichosporonosis and geotrichosis. Journal of the German Society of Dermatology (JDDG). May 2013, Volume 11, Issue 5, Pages 381-394. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1111/ddg.12097
DrHouse articles are written by MDs, NPs, nutritionists and other healthcare professionals. The contents of the DrHouse site are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing high fever (>103F/39.4C), shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chest pain, heart palpitations, abnormal bruising, abnormal bleeding, extreme fatigue, dizziness, new weakness or paralysis, difficulty with speech, confusion, extreme pain in any body part, or inability to remain hydrated or keep down fluids or feel you may have any other life-threatening condition, please go to the emergency department or call 911 immediately.
