Vaginal infections happen when something throws off the natural balance of bacteria and yeast. That balance can be disrupted by irritants like spermicides or hygiene products, certain medications, hormonal shifts, douching, or contact with a virus like HPV or herpes. Knowing what's behind your symptoms helps your provider treat it and lower the chance it comes back.

Yeast infections and BV aren't sexually transmitted, so your partner won't need treatment. But trichomoniasis and other STIs do require your partner to be tested and treated. With any vaginal infection, hold off on sex for about a week during treatment to fully recover.

A yeast infection is an overgrowth of yeast, treated with antifungals. Bacterial vaginosis is a bacterial imbalance, treated with antibiotics. Trichomoniasis is an STI from a parasite and needs antibiotics for you and your partner. Testing tells them apart in one visit at any AllCare clinic.

Lower your risk with simple habits: bathe with mild soap and dry off, skip douching and scented products, change out of wet clothes promptly, manage stress and blood sugar, and use condoms. If you're prone to them while on antibiotics, ask your provider about prevention.

Many of the common vaginal infections have similar symptoms, including burning, itching, pain, and discomfort, which makes them difficult to self-diagnose. An AllCare Georgia urgent care medical professional can run the necessary tests and order the correct medications to resolve your specific vaginal infection.

While some vaginal discharge is healthy and normal, if you notice your discharge is becoming thicker, chunky, or appears grey, green, or foamy, it’s essential to seek medical attention to receive the appropriate treatment.