Yeast Infection vs BV: How to Tell the Difference (and Get Treated Online)
Written by Naurah Gaspard, DNP, FNP-C, FNP-BC · Medically reviewed by Cherlie Joseph, MSN, FNP-BC · Updated November 2026
A yeast infection usually causes itching and thick, white, cottage-cheese-like discharge with little odor. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) usually causes thin gray or white discharge with a fishy smell, often stronger after sex, and less itching. They need different treatments.
In this guide
Side-by-side comparison
| Yeast infection | Bacterial vaginosis (BV) | |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Overgrowth of Candida yeast | Imbalance of normal vaginal bacteria |
| Discharge | Thick, white, clumpy | Thin, gray or white |
| Odor | Little or none | Fishy, stronger after sex |
| Itching | Common, often intense | Mild or none |
| Usual treatment | Antifungal (fluconazole pill or vaginal cream) | Antibiotic (metronidazole or clindamycin) |
Why getting it right matters
Over-the-counter yeast creams don't treat BV, and many women who self-treat for yeast actually have BV or another cause. Using the wrong treatment delays relief, and untreated BV can raise the risk of STIs and pregnancy complications.
Not sure which one you have? Describe your symptoms and we'll help.
$79 visit, private and discreet. Adults 18+ in FL, NM, OR and WA.
Start a yeast infection visit →What raises your risk
- Yeast: recent antibiotics, pregnancy, high blood sugar, steroid use, tight or damp clothing.
- BV: douching, a new sex partner or multiple partners, scented washes. BV is not considered an STI, but it is linked to sexual activity.
How online treatment works
You answer private questions about your symptoms in the patient portal. If your symptoms clearly fit yeast or BV and there are no warning signs, your nurse practitioner can send treatment to your pharmacy. If the picture isn't clear, or you might have an STI, we'll recommend testing first.
Preventing repeat infections
- Skip douches, scented soaps and sprays.
- Wear breathable cotton underwear and change out of wet clothes quickly.
- Use condoms with new partners.
- If you have 4 or more yeast infections in a year, or BV keeps returning, ask about longer prevention plans and testing.
Get in-person care or call 911 if you have:
- Fever or pelvic pain
- Sores or blisters
- Pregnancy with new discharge or odor
- Possible STI exposure (testing is recommended)
Frequently asked questions
Can BV go away on its own?
Sometimes, but it often returns, and untreated BV carries risks. Treatment with a prescription antibiotic is recommended when you have symptoms.
Should my partner be treated for BV?
Male partners generally do not need treatment for BV. Female partners may benefit from evaluation.
Can I get fluconazole online in Florida?
Yes, when appropriate. A nurse practitioner licensed in your state can prescribe fluconazole after an online visit if your symptoms fit a yeast infection.
Sources
Keep reading
- UTI Treatment Online in Florida: Can You Get Antibiotics Without an Office Visit?
- STD Testing Online in Florida: Which Tests You Need and How It Works
Questions about your own health? Our nurse practitioners can help.
$79 visit, private and discreet. Adults 18+ in FL, NM, OR and WA.
Start a yeast infection visit →
Naurah Gaspard, DNP, FNP-C, FNP-BC
Board-certified family nurse practitioner licensed in Florida, New Mexico, Oregon and Washington, caring for adults online at OurTopClinic. Meet our providers.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. Treatment, including any prescription, is decided by a licensed provider after reviewing your health history. OurTopClinic is not for emergencies; if you have a medical emergency, call 911. OurTopClinic serves adults located in Florida, New Mexico, Oregon and Washington. Learn more at ourtopclinic.com.
