# Thrush vs BV: the itchy, fishy truth

> Two super common vaginal infections, and how to tell them apart.

Category: Conditions · 5 min read · Written by the Splash team · Sources checked October 2026
URL: https://splash.care/learn/conditions/vaginal-infections

## 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](https://splash.care/learn/glossary#vaginal-flora)) that keeps things healthy. When that balance shifts, two common infections can show up: [thrush](https://splash.care/learn/glossary/thrush) and [bacterial vaginosis (BV)](https://splash.care/learn/glossary/bv). Neither is classed as an [STI](https://splash.care/learn/glossary/sti), and both are very treatable.

## Thrush

- Thick, white [discharge](https://splash.care/learn/body-literacy/discharge-decoded), often described as like cottage cheese, usually without a strong smell
- Itching and irritation around the [vulva](https://splash.care/learn/glossary/vulva) and [vagina](https://splash.care/learn/glossary/vagina)
- Soreness or stinging during sex or when peeing

Thrush is caused by an overgrowth of [Candida](https://splash.care/learn/glossary#candida). Antibiotics, [pregnancy](https://splash.care/learn/fertility-ttc/early-pregnancy-signs), 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](https://splash.care/learn/glossary/iud), or perfumed products used in or around the vagina, though people who have never had sex can get it too.

**Myth:** Douching or vaginal washes keep you extra clean.

**Fact:** 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](https://splash.care/learn/conditions/talk-to-your-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.

**Quick quiz:** Which is more typical of thrush?

1. A strong fishy smell with thin grey discharge
2. Thick white discharge with itching
3. No symptoms at all

Answer: 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.

> **Splash says:** cotton undies, showers over bubble baths, and no perfumed products down there. Your vagina is a self-cleaning oven, no extras needed.

### When to see a doctor

See a GP or sexual health clinic if it is your first time with symptoms, you are pregnant or breastfeeding, under 16 or over 60, treatment has not worked, thrush keeps coming back (more than 4 times in 12 months), or you could have an STI. Seek prompt care for pelvic pain, fever, or unusual bleeding.

## Sources

1. [NHS: Thrush](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/thrush-in-men-and-women/)
2. [NHS: Bacterial vaginosis](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/bacterial-vaginosis/)
3. [NHS: Vaginal discharge](https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/vaginal-discharge/)
4. [ACOG: Vaginitis](https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/vaginitis)

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).