UTI vs Vaginal Infection: How to Tell the Difference
Women often confuse urinary tract infections (UTIs) and vaginal infections due to overlapping symptoms, but they affect different body systems. Consultant gynaecologist Muibat Adeniran explains that UTIs involve the urinary tract (kidneys, bladder, urethra), while vaginal infections affect the reproductive tract (vagina, vulva, cervix). Risk factors differ: UTIs stem from anatomical factors like the short female urethra, while vaginal infections relate to sexual health and hygiene. Symptoms include frequent urination and dysuria for UTIs versus vulvar itching and abnormal discharge for vaginal infections. Both can cause abdominal pain and fever, but lab tests are essential for accurate diagnosis. Untreated UTIs risk kidney damage, while untreated vaginal infections may cause infertility. Prevention involves good hygiene, safe sex, and prompt medical care.