A yeast infection and a urinary tract infection (UTI) often bear similar symptoms, such as pain or irritation in the pelvic area, and a burning sensation during urination. However, they can differ widely in other symptoms and causes. Yeast infections are generally caused by the deterioration of good bacteria within the vagina, thus causing an increase in the production of yeast, while a UTI is caused by bad bacteria entering the urinary tract. Yeast infections may cause a burning or itching sensation in the inner and outer vagina, soreness, and unusually colored or strong-scented discharge, while a UTI may cause cloudy or foul-smelling urine, tenderness in the lower abdomen, and an increased urge to urinate.

A UTI is an infection that may occur in the kidneys, bladder, urethra, or ureters, and is usually caused by bacteria entering the urethra and then invading the inner areas of the urinary tract. A yeast infection will often arise from a drastic increase in candida, or yeast. Healthy bacteria that the body naturally produces generally keep the overproduction of yeast at bay; however, a weakened immune system, some medications, foreign substances, and certain diseases may diminish the amount of healthy bacteria and allow the yeast to multiply. When a woman develops a UTI that does not resolve on its own, she will generally be prescribed an antibiotic. Strong doses of antibiotics can kill off good as well as bad bacteria, thus causing a yeast infection.

It is not uncommon for some women to confuse a yeast infection and a urinary tract infection, because a urinary and yeast infection cycle can sometimes coincide. Although some UTIs may resolve themselves, most cases require a visit to a doctor, who will usually prescribe a strong antibiotic. These powerful medications will usually kill off the bacteria that cause the UTI; however, on some occasions, they may also disrupt the good bacteria, thus causing a yeast infection. When UTIs become frequent, which may happen when the immune system is weakened, the cycle will continue.

Both a yeast infection and a urinary tract infection may be painful and irritating. Fortunately, these conditions are generally easy to cure. UTIs are almost always treated with antibiotics. Yeast infections are generally treatable with over-the-counter creams, but may require stronger prescription medications. For both a yeast infection and a urinary tract infection, a doctor may also recommend that the patient avoid certain feminine cleaning products, maintain proper hygiene, and urinate frequently, especially before and after sexual intercourse.