Thanks for your question. Vaginal infections are a common cause of discomfort and annoying symptoms for women. There are a lot of misconceptions that I find in women who've been treated for both yeast and bacterial vaginal infections.
Vaginal discharge that is discolored and malodorous is almost always related to bacterial overgrowth. Discharge may also accompany
yeast infections, but itching seems to be the common complaint with yeast.
The set up for bacterial vaginal infections is the mismatch in pH between the normal vagina (pH 4) and menstrual blood (pH 7.4). Blood also is a great source of "food" for bacteria which can lead to bacterial overgrowth.
Bacterial vaginosis is a bacterial overgrowth infection leading to the malodorous and discolored discharge. Vaginal pH is elevated to 5 or above when tested during examination.
There are culture panels available for testing the vagina for yeast and bacterial overgrowth. Vaginal pH testing is a simple office test that can lead to the correct diagnosis. If pH is elevated, there tends to be a bacterial infection. If vaginal pH is normal, uncomfortable discharge is probably yeast, especially if accompanied by itching, burning and irritation of the vagina and
vulva.
Most bacterial infections are treated with oral
metronidazole, which I find to be less effective than antibiotics placed within the vagina. My treatment of choice for bacterial overgrowth is
clindamycin cream. It is the only antibiotic effective against Mobiluncus, which is a common and frequently overlooked cause of bacterial vaginosis.
Avoiding simple sugars and carbohydrates, as well as dairy products can help decrease yeast infections in women prone to them. Hydration is important as well.
I hope this answers your questions. I am available for further consultation.