Understanding Common Vaginal Infections and STIs: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Care
At HealthCARE Express, Nurse Practitioner Alex Donnelly often sees women dealing with symptoms they’re unsure how to talk about, especially when it comes to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and bacterial vaginosis (BV). Her message is simple: you’re not alone, and we’re here to help.
What’s the Difference Between an STI and an STD?
STI stands for “sexually transmitted infection,” while STD means “sexually transmitted disease.” The terms are often used interchangeably, but there’s a slight difference in how they're perceived. STIs may be present without symptoms and are often treatable, while STDs usually indicate a more advanced or symptomatic condition.
“We treat a lot of STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea, which can show up with symptoms like painful urination or unusual discharge,” explains Alex. “But sometimes, people have no symptoms at all, which is why routine testing is so important.”
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Some of the most common symptoms Alex and the team see include:
- Pain or burning while urinating
- Vaginal discharge (sometimes yellow or green)
- Pelvic discomfort
- Pain during sex
Trichomoniasis is another infection that causes a frothy, yellow-green discharge and can be mistaken for other vaginal issues. Regardless of the cause, Alex stresses that there are no effective at-home treatments for these conditions. “Over-the-counter remedies just don’t cut it. Proper diagnosis and prescription treatment are the only way to get real relief,” she says.
What Is Bacterial Vaginosis?
Bacterial vaginosis, or BV, isn’t technically an STI, but it can be triggered by sexual activity or disruptions to the vaginal pH. It’s caused when bad bacteria outnumber the good bacteria in the vagina.
Symptoms of BV may include:
- A thin, grayish discharge
- A strong or fishy odor
- Vaginal irritation or itching
- Discomfort during intercourse
“BV doesn’t mean you’re unclean, it just means the balance of bacteria is off,” Alex explains. “And using douches or vaginal washes often makes it worse, not better.”
Testing & Treatment at HealthCARE Express
When you visit HealthCARE Express, you’ll receive discreet, judgment-free care. The team can run swabs or bloodwork to identify the exact cause of your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan. If needed, we can also treat your partner.
“If you’re ever unsure, just come in,” says Alex. “There are no lectures; we just want to help you feel better.”
Visit Us
HealthCARE Express is here for all of life’s little urgencies, including women’s health issues you may not feel comfortable discussing elsewhere. We’re quick, caring, and always judgment-free.
