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Vaginal & vulval health

What's the difference between a UTI and a yeast infection?

A UTI mainly causes burning when urinating and frequent urgent peeing, while a vaginal yeast infection causes itching, thick white discharge, and soreness. They are different conditions with different treatments.

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A urinary tract infection affects the urinary system and typically causes burning on urination, urgency, frequent passing of small amounts, and sometimes cloudy urine or lower-abdomen discomfort. A vaginal thrush (yeast) infection affects the vagina and vulva and typically causes itching, irritation, soreness, and a thick, white, often odourless discharge, sometimes with discomfort during sex or urination as urine passes over irritated skin.

Because some symptoms overlap, such as discomfort when urinating, it can be hard to tell them apart, and it is possible to have both at once. The treatments are different: UTIs often need antibiotics, while yeast infections are treated with antifungal products.

If you are unsure which you have, have symptoms for the first time, are pregnant, have recurrent episodes, or have other symptoms such as fever, abnormal bleeding, or a smelly discharge, see a clinician or pharmacist for an accurate diagnosis before treating, so you get the right treatment.

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