Do I have a yeast infection or UTI?

We’ve all been there: Something feels off down there, but it’s hard to tell what’s causing your symptoms. Two common causes are yeast infections and UTIs—and while they have pretty distinct symptoms, they can sometimes overlap. So, how do you figure out what's going on? Let’s dive into the differences between these two culprits so you can get the relief you need ASAP.

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If you think you have a UTI, a yeast infection, or a combination of the two, Hey Jane’s expert clinical care team can guide you through treatment from the comfort and convenience of your phone. To see if you’re eligible for care with Hey Jane, fill out this quick online form.

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What is a UTI?

A UTI, or urinary tract infection, happens when bacteria (usually from feces) sneak into your urinary system—bladder, kidneys, ureters, and urethra—and cause serious pain and discomfort. UTIs usually stem from bacteria like E. coli, which, unfortunately, is more common than we'd like it to be. 

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While UTIs don’t always cause symptoms, when they do, they may include the following:

• Burning during urination
• Frequent urge to pee (even when nothing’s coming out)
• Cloudy, strong-smelling urine
• Urine that appears red, pink, or brown—which are all signs of blood in the urine
• Pain in the lower abdomen
• Pelvic pain (for people with vaginas)

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Good news: UTIs are treatable with antibiotics. That said, the quicker you get treated, the sooner you’ll feel relief.

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What is a yeast infection?

Yeast infections, on the other hand, occur when there's an overgrowth of the fungus Candida in the vagina. Normally, your body keeps yeast in check. However, things like antibiotics, hormonal changes, or even stress could mess things up down there. 

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Yeast infections may cause the following symptoms:

• Itching or burning sensation in your vagina or vulva
• Thick, white discharge—which some say looks like cottage cheese
• Redness and swelling around your vagina and vulva
• A burning sensation when you pee
• Pain during sex

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Like UTIs, yeast infections are treatable with antifungal creams or pills. 

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What are the differences between UTIs and yeast infections?

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let's break down the key differences between UTIs and yeast infections.

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UTI vs. yeast infection causes

UTIs are usually caused by bacteria, particularly E. coli, which can enter the urinary tract through improper wiping, sexual activity, or other means. 

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Yeast infections can result from an overgrowth of the fungus Candida, which naturally lives in the body but can multiply when antibiotics, hormonal changes, or a weakened immune system disrupt the body’s balance.

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UTI vs. yeast infection symptoms

When it comes to symptoms, UTIs often cause burning during urination, a constant urge to pee (even if little to nothing comes out), and pain in the lower abdomen. You might also notice your urine looking cloudy or smelling off. 

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In contrast, a yeast infection typically leads to intense itching, thick white discharge (often compared to cottage cheese), and irritation or swelling around the vaginal area. 

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UTI vs. yeast infection treatment

Antibiotics, such as trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Bactrim DS), fosfomycin (Monurol), nitrofurantoin (Macrodantin, Macrobid, Furadantin), cephalexin, and ceftriaxone, can be used to treat most UTIs. Your health care provider may also recommend additional medications to relieve pain and discomfort. 

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Regarding yeast infections, your best bet for symptom relief is antifungal medications, which are available as creams, ointments, suppositories, tablets, or oral drugs, such as fluconazole. Some people treat yeast infections at home with over-the-counter medications, but you can treat a yeast infection with prescription medications which can be more effective in relieving symptoms. If you’re looking for relief for either infection, you can consult with a Hey Jane provider within 1 business day, no in-person appointment needed.

How to tell if you have a UTI or yeast infection

Still not sure which one you’re dealing with? Here’s how you can figure it out:

1. Pay attention to your symptoms: The specific symptoms you experience can give you big clues. Burning or pain during urination, a constant need to pee, and lower belly discomfort often point to a UTI. If you're dealing with intense itching, thick white discharge, and irritation around your vaginal area, it’s more likely a yeast infection.
2. Take an at-home test: Some pharmacies offer at-home UTI test kits to check for signs of infection in your urine. If you suspect a yeast infection, some over-the-counter options can help confirm that, too.
3. Consult with a health care provider: If you're unsure or your symptoms persist, it’s a good idea to get a professional opinion. A health care provider can test your urine for a UTI or swab the affected area to check for yeast overgrowth and get you started on treatment.

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Can you have a UTI and yeast infection at the same time?

We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but you can get hit with a double whammy. Although they are caused by different organisms—UTIs by bacteria and yeast infections by fungi—they can overlap, especially if certain factors disrupt your body’s balance. 

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For example, taking antibiotics to treat a UTI can sometimes trigger a yeast infection because antibiotics can kill not only harmful bacteria but also the beneficial bacteria that help keep yeast in check. If you’re dealing with symptoms of both infections, it’s important to treat them separately, with antibiotics for the UTI and antifungal medications for the yeast infection.

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Can a yeast infection turn into a UTI?

While a yeast infection itself won’t directly turn into a UTI, the two can sometimes occur around the same time. Yeast infections don’t cause UTIs, but the discomfort and inflammation from a yeast infection can make you more susceptible to irritation in the urinary tract, which may increase the chances of developing a UTI. It’s important to treat each condition individually and recognize that having one doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get the other—but if symptoms of both arise, be sure to address each appropriately.