Trichomoniasis vs Yeast Infection: What Makes Them Different

If vaginal health problems are not effectively treated, they can lead to a great deal of discomfort and irritability for women. 

Unfortunately, because so many of these vaginal problems, like Trichomoniasis and Yeast Infection, are identical, not many can figure out what they’re dealing with. 

It can be difficult to diagnose certain conditions since they all have similar symptoms, such as unusual discharges, burning, and itching.

Even though their symptoms may seem similar, these are two different conditions, and it’s important to know their differences. 

This ‘Trichomoniasis vs Yeast Infection’ article helps to discover more about the differences between the two, including their causes, symptoms, and other information.

Overview

The table below does a comparison between Trichomoniasis vs Yeast Infection, underlining the difference between the two.

What is Trichomoniasis

With 150 million new cases annually, trichomoniasis is one of the most prevalent treatable sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the world.

The parasite that causes Trichomoniasis primarily targets the genital area.

Trichomoniasis can also be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity or from a mother to her baby during birth. 

It affects both men and women but is more symptomatic in women, and the symptoms are often different.

What is a Yeast Infection

Candida is a fungus that ordinarily resides on the skin, mouth, and throat, causing no harm.   

Yeast infections, caused by Candida overgrowth, can occur anywhere on the body. 

Candida can multiply and produce an infection when the body’s balance of bacteria and yeast is interrupted. 

The most common site is the genital area, resulting in vaginal Yeast infection in women.

Yeast infections are more common, particularly after antibiotics or when the body’s immune system is weakened.

Understanding the differences

Vaginal Trichomoniasis and Yeast infections brought on by candida overgrowth seem similar at first glance, and they do, especially when it comes to their symptoms. 

But they also differ greatly, and those distinctions dictate how they should be handled and cared for.

The key differences have been reiterated below.

Causes and transmission

The parasite Trichomonas vaginalis causes Trichomoniasis, whereas Yeast infections are caused by a fungus (often Candida yeast). 

These are two sorts of organisms that exist and reproduce differently.

Trichomoniasis is an STI, meaning that it can mostly be passed on through sexual activity and related behaviors. 

Yeast infections, on the other hand, arise when the pH of the vaginal cavity becomes out of equilibrium, allowing Candida overgrowth.

Although Yeast infections are seldom sexually transmitted, sexual contact can modify the vaginal environment and potentially cause yeast overgrowth. 

Symptoms

As previously noted, Trichomoniasis rarely exhibits obvious vaginal symptoms, which contributes to the virus’s high transmission rate.

In contrast, vaginal symptoms of Yeast Infections are almost always rather visible.

The symptoms of Trichomoniasis in men and women can vary, but some common signs include:

• Pain or burning sensation during urination
• Itching or irritation in the genital area
• Discharge from the penis or vagina
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Frequent urges to urinate
• Lower abdominal pain
• Vaginal swelling
• Vaginal spotting
• Fever

Women who have yeast infections may have the following symptoms:

• Itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva
• Redness and swelling of the vagina and vulva
• Pain or burning sensation during urination
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Thick, white, odorless vaginal discharge, often resembling cottage cheese
• Strong vaginal odor

Discharge characteristics

While both infections result in unusual discharge, Trichomoniasis leads to frothy, yellow-green discharge, distinct from the thicker, white discharge in Yeast infections.

While Trichomoniasis discharge is frequently white, its thin texture distinguishes it from Yeast infection discharge, which often appears like cottage cheese. 

Yeast infection also does not have the same fishy odor as Trichomoniasis.

Partner involvement

Trichomoniasis necessitates partner testing and treatment to prevent reinfection. 

Yeast Infections, however, are not considered sexually transmitted, reducing the need for partner involvement, though testing can be done if there are symptoms.

Diagnosis and treatment

To diagnose Trichomoniasis, a laboratory test is usually performed. 

For Yeast Infections, a physical exam and a pH test can help identify the condition.

Antibiotics, like Metronidazole, are commonly prescribed for Trichomoniasis.

Antifungal medications, such as Fluconazole, effectively tackle Yeast Infections.

Some Yeast Infection medications in creams and suppositories are widely accessible and do not require a prescription.

Conclusion

Trichomoniasis and Yeast Infections are two common conditions that affect women. 

While both can cause discomfort and irritation, they have different causes, symptoms, and treatments. 

A parasite causes Trichomoniasis and is sexually transmitted.

In contrast, an overgrowth of Candida yeast causes Yeast Infections and can be caused by various factors. 

Symptoms of Trichomoniasis include itching, pain during urination, discharge, and abdominal pain.

In contrast, symptoms of Yeast Infections include itching, burning, discharge, and redness. 

Treatment for Trichomoniasis involves antibiotics, while Yeast Infections involve antifungal medication. 

A laboratory test can diagnose Trichomoniasis, while a physical exam and pH test can diagnose Yeast infections.

If an individual suspects they have either of these infections, it is crucial to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

• mayoclinic.org
• cdc.gov
• mayoclinic.org