On this page 5 sections
Quick answer
- Thrush tends to itch with thick white discharge; BV tends to smell fishy with thin grey discharge.
- Neither is an STI, but sex can trigger both.
- Skip douches and perfumed products.
- First time or pregnant? See a GP or sexual health clinic.
Vaginas are self-cleaning, with a balanced community of bacteria (vaginal flora) that keeps things healthy. When that balance shifts, two common infections can show up: thrush and bacterial vaginosis (BV). Neither is classed as an STI, and both are very treatable.
Thrush
- Thick, white discharge, often described as like cottage cheese, usually without a strong smell
- Itching and irritation around the vulva and vagina
- Soreness or stinging during sex or when peeing
Thrush is caused by an overgrowth of candida. Antibiotics, pregnancy, poorly controlled diabetes and a weakened immune system can make it more likely.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV)
- Thin, watery, greyish-white discharge
- A strong fishy smell, especially after sex
- Usually no itching or soreness
- Half of people with BV have no symptoms
BV happens when the bacterial balance shifts. It is more likely with a new partner, an IUD, or perfumed products used in or around the vagina, though people who have never had sex can get it too.
MythDouching or vaginal washes keep you extra clean.
They disrupt the natural balance and can make BV and thrush more likely. Plain water (and a gentle emollient or plain soap on the outside) is all you need.
Treatment
If a doctor has diagnosed thrush before and you recognise it, a pharmacist can offer antifungal treatment; it should clear within 7 to 14 days. Antifungal creams can damage condoms and diaphragms. BV needs antibiotic tablets, gel or cream from a GP or sexual health clinic.
- A strong fishy smell with thin grey discharge
- Thick white discharge with itching
- No symptoms at all
Show the answer
B. Thick white discharge with itching
Thrush usually causes thick, white, odourless discharge with itching. BV more often causes a thin grey discharge with a fishy smell, and half of people with BV have no symptoms.
Sources
Written by the Splash teamSources checked
This is general information, not medical advice. Splash can’t diagnose. If you’re worried, talk to a GP, pharmacist or sexual health clinic. In an emergency call 999 (UK) or 911 (US). How we write and check articles.