Quiz: Do I Have a Yeast Infection?

Written by

Emily Maeve Milord

Emily Maeve Milord is a licensed social worker and wellness freelance writer. She graduated with a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree in 2020 from Aurora University, where she specialized in both health care and gerontology. Emily has clinical experience working with older adults and adults with disabilities in hospital, nursing home, and social service agency settings. Emily also has a background in psychology, receiving her B.A. in psychology from North Central College in 2018.

Medically reviewed by

Amy Dougherty, FNP-BC, AGAC

Amy is a Board Certified Family Health Nurse Practitioner (FNP) with over 15 years of experience working in Hospital Medicine, Urgent Care and Primary Care practices. Amy graduated Thomas Jefferson University with high distinction earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2008, a Master of Science in Nursing in 2010 and a Post Master's Certificate in Adult Gerontology Acute Care (AGAC) in 2014. She was recognized by the Elite American Nurses Association in 2013 for her dedication, achievements and leadership in the field Nursing. She served as a clinical preceptor for a number of Nurse Practitioner students and enjoys teaching the bright minds of future NPs.

Are you experiencing itching, burning, and unusual discharge down there? You may be wondering if you have a yeast infection. Yeast infections, also known as candidiasis, are a common type of fungal infection that can affect both men and women.

Yeast infections share some common symptoms with other infections and can be difficult to diagnose. To help you determine if you have a yeast infection or a UTI, BV, or any other condition that can cause similar symptoms, we’ve put together this simple quiz. Answer the questions below to find out whether or not it is likely that you are suffering from candidiasis.

Table of Contents

• Do I Have a Yeast Infection Quiz
• What Is a Yeast Infection?
• What Causes Yeast Infections?
• How Do I Know if I Have a Yeast Infection or Something Else?
• Yeast Infection or UTI?
• Yeast Infection or Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)?
• Yeast Infection or STD?
• How to Treat a Yeast Infection?
• How to Prevent a Yeast Infection?
• How Can DrHouse Help You?

Do I Have a Yeast Infection Quiz

Disclaimer: This quiz is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is designed to provide general information and guidance. This quiz is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. Please see your doctor for professional advice.

What Is a Yeast Infection?

Vaginal yeast infections, also known as candidiasis, are a common type of fungal infection that affects the vagina and vulva. They are caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida, which is normally present in the vagina in small amounts.

Symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection can include itching, burning, and redness in the vulva and vagina. The itching can be intense and may be worse at night or during times of sexual activity. The vulva may also appear red and swollen, and there may be white patches or bumps on the skin.

In addition to these symptoms, a woman with a vaginal yeast infection may also experience a thick, white discharge from the vagina. The discharge may be described as having a yeasty smell, similar to bread or beer. It may be clumpy or have a cottage cheese-like texture, and it may be more noticeable after sexual activity.

Pain during sex and urination can also occur with a vaginal yeast infection. Sex may be painful or uncomfortable, and urination may cause burning or discomfort. In some cases, a woman may feel like she needs to urinate more frequently than usual.

While these symptoms can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, they are usually not severe. However, it is important to see a doctor if you suspect you have a yeast infection, as the symptoms can be similar to those of other infections, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A doctor can confirm the diagnosis and recommend the appropriate treatment.

What Causes Yeast Infections?

Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida. This can happen when the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted, allowing the fungus to grow unchecked. This can be caused by a number of things, such as antibiotics, douching, tight clothing, and diabetes. Some people are also more susceptible to yeast infections due to genetics.

How Do I Know If I Have a Yeast Infection or Something Else?

Yeast infections share many symptoms with other conditions, including bacterial vaginosis, sexually transmitted infections, and UTIs. It’s often very difficult to tell the difference between yeast infections and other conditions without a proper diagnosis from your doctor.

Yeast Infection or UTI?

While urinary tract infections (UTIs) and yeast infections can have similar symptoms, there are some key differences between the two conditions. UTIs are caused by bacteria and are more common in the urethra, bladder, or kidneys. They can cause symptoms such as a frequent and urgent need to urinate, pain or burning during urination, and cloudy or bloody urine.

Yeast infections, on the other hand, are caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida. They are more common in the vagina and can cause symptoms such as vaginal discharge, itching, and burning.

To determine whether you have a UTI or a yeast infection, it is best to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. A doctor can perform a physical examination and laboratory tests to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend the best course of action.

Yeast Infection or Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)?

Yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis (BV) are two common vaginal infections that can have similar symptoms, such as vaginal itching, burning, and discharge. However, they are caused by different types of bacteria and require different treatments.

While yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida, BV, is caused by an imbalance of the bacteria that naturally live in the vagina. It is not caused by a fungus, and it cannot be treated with antifungal medication. Instead, BV is treated with antibiotics.

Some key differences between yeast infections and BV include the cause of the infection, the type of symptoms, and the recommended treatment. It is important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Yeast Infection or STD?

It is not always easy to tell the difference between a yeast infection and a sexually transmitted disease (STD) based on symptoms alone. The best way to determine the cause of your symptoms is to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

A yeast infection typically causes itching and discharge, but not all STDs have obvious symptoms. Some STDs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, can cause symptoms that are similar to those of a yeast infection, such as burning and itching in the genital area.

If you have any symptoms that concern you, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Yeast Infection or an Allergic Reaction?

Yeast infections and allergic reactions can both cause itching and irritation in the genital area. However, there are some key differences between the two conditions that can help you determine which one you may be experiencing.

Allergic reactions are caused by the body’s immune system responding to a foreign substance, such as a new soap or detergent. Allergic reactions can affect any part of the body, including the genitals. Symptoms of an allergic reaction in the genital area can include:

• Itching and swelling
• Redness and irritation
• Hives or rash
• Difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue (in severe cases)

How to Treat a Yeast Infection?

There are several ways to treat a yeast infection, which can also be called candidiasis. Some common treatments include:

• Antifungal medication: Your doctor may prescribe antifungal medication in the form of a cream, ointment, tablet, or suppository to be inserted into the vagina. These medications are effective in treating yeast infections and can be bought over the counter or with a prescription.
• Home remedies: Some people find relief from symptoms of a yeast infection by using home remedies, such as soaking in a warm bath with Epsom salt. However, it’s important to note that these remedies have not been proven to be effective and should be used with caution.
• Probiotics: Taking probiotics, which contain beneficial bacteria, can help restore the balance of bacteria in the body and prevent the overgrowth of yeast. Probiotics are available in supplement form or can be found in certain foods, such as yogurt and sauerkraut.

It’s important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. If you think you may have a yeast infection, contact your healthcare provider for advice.

How to Prevent a Yeast Infection?

There are several steps you can take to help prevent a yeast infection, including:

• Avoid tight-fitting clothing and underwear: Tight clothing and underwear can create a warm, moist environment that allows yeast to grow. Instead, wear loose-fitting clothing and cotton underwear to help keep the area dry and prevent the overgrowth of yeast.
• Avoiding douching: Douching can upset the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and increase your risk of a yeast infection. It’s best to avoid douching altogether.
• Avoiding scented feminine hygiene products: Scented products, such as sprays, powders, and perfumes, can irritate the vagina and increase your risk of a yeast infection. Instead, use unscented products and avoid using scented products in the genital area.

It’s also important to practice good hygiene to help prevent a yeast infection. Be sure to wash your hands regularly and clean your genitals and anus with soap and water. Avoid sharing towels and washcloths with others, and avoid having sex until your infection has cleared up.

How Can DrHouse Help You?

At DrHouse, we understand how difficult it can be to diagnose and treat a yeast infection. Our team of healthcare professionals is here to help you get the accurate diagnosis and treatment you need.

With DrHouse, you can start on-demand virtual doctor visits 24/7, receive a diagnosis, and get a treatment plan, and get a prescription to treat any yeast infection in as little as 15 minutes.

Plus, our team of board-certified doctors can answer any questions you may have about yeast infections and provide personalized advice on how to prevent them from returning.

Book your virtual doctor visit today – we’re here for you when you need us!

FAQ

Sources:

• Vaginal Candidiasis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/candidiasis/genital/index.html.
• Yeast Infection. John Hopkins Medicine. Available from: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/candidiasis-yeast-infection.
• InformedHealth.org [Internet]. Cologne, Germany: Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2006-. Vaginal yeast infection (thrush): Overview. 2019 Jun 19. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK543220/.
• Vaginal yeast infections. Office on Women’s Health. Available from: https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/vaginal-yeast-infections.