Vaginal thrush is a common fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida. It occurs when the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina is disrupted. It is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and is easily treatable.
Common Symptoms
- Itching, soreness, or redness around the vulva/vagina.
- Thick, white, odourless discharge (like cottage cheese).
- Pain or burning during urination or sex.
- Swelling or cracked skin around the vulva.
Causes & Risk Factors
- Antibiotics: Disrupt healthy vaginal bacteria.
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menstruation, or hormonal contraceptives.
- Health conditions: Diabetes, weakened immune system, or iron deficiency.
- Lifestyle factors: Tight clothing, synthetic underwear, or scented hygiene products.
- Other triggers: Stress, high-sugar diets, or prolonged moisture (e.g., sweaty workouts).
Treatment Options
1. Antifungal Medications
- Over the counter creams/pessaries:
- Clotrimazole (Canesten®) or miconazole (Gyno-Daktarin®).
- Applied internally or externally for 1–7 days.
- Oral tablets: Fluconazole – single dose
2. Self-Care
- Cool compress or baths to soothe itching.
- Probiotics: Yogurt with live cultures or supplements (may help restore balance).
- Avoid irritants: Scented soaps, douches, or vaginal sprays.
Prevention Tips
- Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing.
- Wash gently with water and unscented soap.
- Change out of wet clothes (e.g., swimsuits, gym wear) promptly.
- Limit sugary foods if prone to recurrent infections.
- Consider probiotics during antibiotic use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can men get thrush?
A: Yes! Men may experience genital itching or rash but rarely need treatment unless symptomatic.
Q: Is thrush contagious?
A: It can spread via sexual contact but is not classified as an STI. Partners usually don’t need treatment unless symptoms arise.
Q: Why does thrush keep coming back?
A: Recurrent thrush (≥4 episodes/year) may require longer-term antifungal therapy. Discuss with your doctor.
Q: Can I have sex during treatment?
A: Avoid sex until symptoms resolve, as friction can worsen irritation. Use condoms if you do.
Q: Are home remedies safe?
A: Natural options (e.g., yogurt) may soothe but do not replace antifungals. Consult your doctor first.
eGynaecologist Advice:
- Vaginal thrush is common and treatable however, symptoms may mimic other infections (e.g., bacterial vaginosis or STIs) and proper diagnosis is important.
- Proper hygiene and lifestyle changes reduce recurrence. You should consult your gynaecologist if there is no improvement with over-the-counter treatment or if you have recurrent (≥4 times a year) infections
- You must seek gynaecological opinion if symptoms are persistent as this may signal an underlying issue or if you have fever, pelvic pain, or unusual discharge (may indicate another condition).
