Both good and bad bacteria normally exist in the vaginal area. However, if the harmful kinds of bacteria build up, an infection can result. There are many causes of bacterial yeast infections, including sexual intercourse, use of birth control, underlying medical conditions and side effects from medications. If bacterial yeast infection symptoms are present, there are treatment options that can help to relieve the symptoms. Certain precautions can then be made to help reduce the risk of reoccurring problems.
Discharge
A bacterial yeast infection can cause discharge from the vagina that may be gray, white, green or yellow states the Mayo Clinic. The discharge may have a foul or fishy odor and it can be watery, frothy or lumpy like cottage cheese. Symptoms may become worse after intercourse. If these symptoms do not respond to over-the-counter medications, become frequent or change over time, seek medical attention because they may signal a more serious problem.
Itching and Burning
Bacterial yeast infections, which are sometimes called bacterial vaginitis or bacterial vaginosis, can occur with no known cause, and in some cases, they never cause any symptoms, states the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In others, infections can cause itching and burning sensations around the vaginal area. The burning and itching sensations may occur on their own or become worse during urination. If the symptoms of a bacterial yeast infection are present, seek treatment. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other areas of the body.
Redness and Swelling
The National Woman's Health Information Center states that a yeast infection can also cause redness and swelling in the vaginal area. The area may become sore, making sex and urination painful. In some cases, a rash can also occur. These symptoms are the same for some types of sexually transmitted diseases, so obtain an accurate diagnosis. Not all women have all of the above symptoms. For some, the symptoms are minor and for others they are severe.
