How to differentiate between fungal (yeast) infection and trichomoniasis
Nov 13, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, fungal and trichomonal infections can be differentiated based on appearance of the discharge, degree of itching, accompanying symptoms, vaginal pH, and microscopic examination. If a fungal or trichomonas infection is suspected, prompt medical treatment is recommended. During treatment, it's important to maintain good personal hygiene, keep the vulva clean and dry, and avoid scratching, all of which help promote recovery.
Generally, fungal and trichomonas infections can be differentiated based on aspects such as the appearance of discharge, itching characteristics, accompanying symptoms, vaginal pH value, and microscopic examination.
1. Discharge appearance: In fungal infections, the discharge appears thick, white, and curd-like, usually sticky, adhering to the vaginal wall, and sometimes expelled in clumps. Trichomoniasis discharge is thin, purulent, yellow-green, and frothy.
2. Itching characteristics: Fungal infections cause intense itching mainly in the external genital area. Trichomoniasis causes itching inside the vagina, often accompanied by a burning or prickling sensation.
3. Accompanying symptoms: Fungal infections may be accompanied by dysuria (painful urination) and dyspareunia (pain during sexual intercourse). Trichomoniasis may involve the urethra and bladder trigone, causing inflammation, and besides dyspareunia and dysuria, can also lead to urinary frequency and urgency.
4. Discharge pH: Fungi thrive in acidic environments, and during fungal infections, the vaginal pH is usually less than 4.5. Trichomonads prefer a relatively alkaline environment, and the vaginal pH is often greater than 4.5 during trichomoniasis.
5. Microscopic examination: Under the microscope, fungal hyphae and budding spores can typically be observed. Trichomonads appear pear-shaped, have flagella, and exhibit motility.
If a fungal or trichomonas infection occurs, prompt medical treatment is recommended. During treatment, maintaining personal hygiene, keeping the external genital area clean and dry, and avoiding scratching are important to facilitate recovery.
