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
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
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.
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).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can men get thrush?
Yes! Men may experience genital itching or rash but rarely need treatment unless symptomatic.
Is thrush contagious?
It can spread via sexual contact but is not classified as an STI. Partners usually don’t need treatment unless symptoms arise.
Why does thrush keep coming back?
Recurrent thrush (≥4 episodes/year) may require longer-term antifungal therapy. Discuss with your gynaecologist if you need a vaginal microbiome testing.
Can I have sex during treatment?
Avoid sex until symptoms resolve, as friction can worsen irritation. Use condoms if you do.
Are home remedies safe?
Natural options (e.g., yogurt) may soothe but do not replace antifungals. Consult your doctor first.
