The short answer: the most common vaginal infections are thrush (a yeast infection), bacterial vaginosis (BV) and sexually transmitted infections such as trichomoniasis and chlamydia. A change in your discharge, a new smell, itching or soreness are the usual signs. Most are easy to treat once diagnosed, so see a doctor rather than guessing, and keep your intimate care simple to lower the chances of infection.
Your discharge is your best clue
Healthy discharge is clear or white, with no strong smell. A change can point to the cause:
| What you notice | Possible cause |
|---|---|
| Thick, white, like cottage cheese, with itching | Thrush (yeast infection) |
| Thin, grey-white, with a fishy smell, often stronger after sex or a period | Bacterial vaginosis |
| Green, yellow or frothy, with a smell | Trichomoniasis |
| Any change with pelvic pain or bleeding between periods or after sex | Chlamydia or gonorrhoea |
| Sores or blisters | Genital herpes |
These are only pointers. Several infections can look alike, and you can have more than one at a time, so a simple swab test is the best way to know.
The common infections
Thrush. A fungus that normally lives in the vagina grows too much, causing itching and thick white discharge. It's not a sexually transmitted infection. It's treated with antifungal medicine. Read more in our thrush guide.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV). The balance of bacteria in the vagina changes, causing a fishy smell and thin grey-white discharge. Half of people with BV have no symptoms. It isn't classed as a sexually transmitted infection, but sex can trigger it. It's treated with antibiotics and often comes back, so ask your doctor about triggers. Treatment matters in pregnancy.
Sexually transmitted infections. Trichomoniasis, chlamydia and gonorrhoea can change your discharge, or cause no symptoms at all. Partners need treatment too. Condoms help protect against them.
Vaginitis. A general term for an itchy, sore or swollen vagina. Besides infections, it can be caused by irritants such as scented soaps, a forgotten tampon, hormone changes after menopause or while breastfeeding, or skin conditions like eczema.
Is it a vaginal infection or a UTI?
A urinary tract infection affects the bladder, not the vagina. It usually causes burning when you pee, needing to pee often and urgently, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine, without a change in discharge. Both need a doctor's advice, and a urine test can tell them apart.
Habits that help prevent infections
- Wash the outside with plain water, or a mild, fragrance-free intimate wash. The vagina cleans itself; never wash or douche inside.
- Skip perfumed products, including scented soaps, bubble baths, sprays, deodorants and wipes.
- Use a gentle detergent for underwear.
- Wear breathable cotton underwear, and change out of sweaty or wet clothes quickly.
- Wipe from front to back after using the toilet.
- Change period products regularly, so damp doesn't sit against your skin. Choose unscented pads, liners and period panties.
- Use condoms with new or multiple partners.
- Don't smoke, which is linked to a higher risk of BV.
See a doctor if
- Your discharge changes in colour, smell or texture
- You have itching, burning or soreness
- You notice sores, blisters or lumps
- You have pain when you pee or during sex
- You have pelvic pain or a fever
- You bleed between periods or after sex
- Symptoms started after sex with a new partner
- You're pregnant and your discharge changes
Avoid sex until you've been checked, in case it's a sexually transmitted infection.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get an infection from period products? Unwashed hands, products left in too long, or scented products can all increase irritation and infection risk. Change regularly, and choose unscented options.
Do I need an intimate wash? No. Plain water is enough for most people. If you like using a wash, choose a mild, fragrance-free one for the outside only.
Can stress cause a vaginal infection? Stress doesn't cause infections directly, but it can affect your immune system and sleep, which may make you more prone to thrush.
Related reading
- Vaginal Yeast Infection (Thrush): Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
- Vaginal Itching Before Your Period: Causes and Relief
- Normal Vaginal Discharge: What to Expect Through the Month
This article is for general information and doesn't replace advice from your doctor.
Sources: NHS: Vaginal discharge, NHS: Bacterial vaginosis, NHS: Thrush, NHS Wales 111: Vaginitis