A vaginal yeast infection is caused by an overgrowth of the yeast fungus in the vagina. Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the herpes simplex virus. Women experiencing any abnormal symptoms in the vaginal area may fear that they have contracted herpes or a yeast infection. While similarities do exist between the two illnesses, the differences can help women determine the cause of their symptoms.
Sores
Small red bumps, blisters or sores in the genital or anal area are the most common sign of a genital herpes outbreak There may be one sore or blister or several bumps clustered together. According to the MayoClinic.com, once a person is exposed to the virus, the initial symptoms of herpes commonly appear within a few weeks. After several days, small red bumps may begin to appear. The bumps will rupture and cause sores that begin to ooze or bleed. Eventually scabs form and the ulcers will heal. Herpes sores may appear inside the vagina, along the cervix and inside the anus where they it they are easy to miss. Sores are not a common symptom of vaginal yeast infections.
Pain and Itching
Both a vaginal yeast infection and a genital herpes outbreak can cause pain and itching in the vaginal area. In a herpes outbreak, the sores commonly associated with the virus are tender and can cause pain when they rupture and scab over. The National Institutes of Health explains that during a vaginal yeast infection, the overgrowth of bacteria may cause the skin to crack, causing pain and a burning sensation. Both illnesses can cause burning and pain upon urination and pain and tenderness in the genital area.
In a vaginal yeast infection, an overgrowth of the candida fungus often causes an intense itching of the vagina and the surrounding tissues. Itching during a herpes outbreak is common but is most often caused due to the sores that rupture and bleed. Women having a herpes outbreak may not notice the itching sensation as someone suffering from a yeast infection might.
Discharge
A common sign of a vaginal yeast infection is vaginal discharge. Women experiencing a yeast infection commonly notice a white, watery, odorless discharge with a cottage cheese like consistency. Discharge is not common during a herpes outbreak, though women may notice a clear fluid or some bleeding when blisters rupture and scab over.
