How do I know if it's thrush or BV?

Symptoms can overlap, so it's not always obvious. A clinician or pharmacist can help identify the cause, which matters because different infections are managed differently.

When should I see someone about vaginal symptoms?

If symptoms are new, persistent, recurring, or you're unsure of the cause, it's worth seeking advice so the right cause is identified and other causes are ruled out.

Common Vaginal Infections

Name: Common Vaginal Infections | Gynaec.com.au
Creator: Dr Priya Sivadas
Published: 2026-07-02

Common infections

Two of the most common causes of vaginal symptoms are thrush and BV.

Thrush (a yeast infection), often itch and thick discharge
Bacterial vaginosis (BV), often a change in discharge and odour
Some symptoms overlap, so the cause isn't always obvious

When to see someone

It's worth seeking advice if symptoms are new, persistent, recurring, or you're unsure of the cause. A clinician can identify what's going on, since different infections need different approaches, and rule out other causes.

How they're managed

Once correctly identified, these infections are usually straightforward to manage with the right approach, chosen with a clinician or pharmacist. This page doesn't recommend specific products or doses, getting the right diagnosis first matters.

When to see a specialist

If you have recurring infections, symptoms that don't settle, or you're unsure what's causing them, a clinician can assess the cause and talk through the options.