If you’ve ever had burning, itching, or frequent trips to the bathroom, you know how uncomfortable urinary and vaginal infections can be. The tricky part is that urinary tract infections (UTIs) and yeast infections often cause similar symptoms—but they’re two completely different conditions that require different treatments.

Knowing how to tell them apart can save you time, money, and a lot of discomfort. Let’s break down the key differences, early signs, and when it’s best to visit Care Station Urgent Care for fast relief and proper treatment.

What Is a UTI?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) happens when bacteria—most commonly E. coli—enter the urinary system. The infection can affect your bladder, urethra, or even your kidneys if left untreated.

Common causes include:

• Holding in urine for long periods
• Wiping from back to front (which spreads bacteria)
• Sexual activity
• Using irritating feminine hygiene products
• A weakened immune system or menopause-related changes

Typical UTI symptoms:

• A burning or stinging feeling during urination
• Frequent urge to urinate, even when little comes out
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
• Pelvic pain or pressure (especially in women)
• Blood in the urine

If the infection travels to the kidneys, symptoms may include fever, chills, nausea, and back pain—a sign you need medical attention right away.

What Is a Yeast Infection?

A yeast infection (also known as candidiasis) occurs when there’s an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida albicans in the vagina. This fungus normally lives in small amounts in the body, but certain conditions allow it to multiply. Unlike UTIs, yeast infections don’t cause urinary frequency or cloudy urine. That’s one of the biggest clues that helps distinguish between the two.

Common triggers include:

• Antibiotic use (which disrupts healthy bacteria)
• Hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or birth control)
• High blood sugar levels or diabetes
• Tight, non-breathable clothing
• Hot, humid weather or excessive moisture

Typical yeast infection symptoms:

• Intense vaginal itching or burning
• Thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge
• Redness and irritation around the vaginal area
• Pain or burning during urination or sex

Key Differences Between UTIs and Yeast Infections

Because these two infections affect different parts of the body—the urinary system versus the vagina—their symptoms and treatments vary.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

 

When to Seek Urgent Care

Many mild infections can start off manageable—but they can escalate quickly if ignored or treated incorrectly. Visit on of Care Station’s location as soon as possible if you notice:

• Persistent or worsening symptoms after using over-the-counter remedies
• Blood in your urine
• Fever, chills, or back pain (could indicate a kidney infection)
• Severe vaginal swelling or pain
• Recurring infections (more than two in six months)
• Pain during intercourse that doesn’t go away

Why Proper Diagnosis Matters

It’s tempting to assume you know what’s going on based on symptoms or past experiences, but both infections require different treatments.

• UTIs need antibiotics. Using antifungal medication for a bacterial infection won’t help and can delay healing.
• Yeast infections need antifungal treatment. Taking antibiotics for a yeast infection can actually worsen it by killing off the healthy bacteria that keep yeast in check.

An accurate diagnosis ensures you get the right treatment from the start—saving you from prolonged discomfort and potential complications.

Preventing Future Infections

While anyone can get a UTI or yeast infection, a few preventive habits can make a big difference.

For UTIs:

• Drink plenty of water to flush bacteria from the urinary tract.
• Urinate before and after sexual activity.
• Wipe from front to back.
• Avoid harsh feminine sprays or douches.
• Don’t hold urine for long periods.

For yeast infections:

• Wear breathable cotton underwear.
• Change out of wet or sweaty clothes quickly.
• Avoid scented soaps, sprays, and bubble baths.
• Limit sugar intake—yeast feeds on sugar.
• If you take antibiotics, ask your provider if probiotics could help balance bacteria levels.

How Care Station Medical Group Can Help

At Care Station Medical Group, we understand how disruptive these infections can be. Our providers offer same-day care for UTIs and yeast infections, with quick testing and personalized treatment plans.

To learn more about our services, call us now at (908) 925-CARE (2273) or visit a Care Station urgent care location near you.