Thrush

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Causes of vaginal thrush

Vaginal thrush is a type of yeast infection which is caused by a fungus known as Candida albicans. Candida can be present in the vagina without presenting any symptoms of irritation. This is because the bacteria in the vagina can manage the Candida fungus so it does not cause any problems. It is when the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina is changed, and the Candida is allowed to multiply, that infection occurs. Thrush is not technically a sexually transmitted infection, but it can develop after sex and it is possible to pass it on during sexual activity.

Potential triggers of vaginal thrush include taking antibiotics, wearing tight clothing, undergoing chemotherapy and using certain cleansing products such as vaginal douches. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, can also increase the risk of developing a yeast infection.

Symptoms of vaginal thrush

It is entirely possible that you could be infected and not be aware of it, as the infection can be asymptomatic. In this case, the only way to know for sure is to receive a cervical smear test. When symptoms do occur, they most commonly include itching, soreness and general irritation at the vulval area. The vulva and vagina may also be noticeably red. Characteristic of vaginal thrush is a change to the consistency of vaginal discharge, so it appears white and slightly lumpy. You may also experience some mild pain while urinating and during sex.

Preventing thrush

It is possible to minimise the risk of becoming infected with thrush if you refrain from wearing particularly tight clothing and avoid perfumed cleansing products. It is advisable to wear cotton underwear, especially if you experience recurrent vaginal thrush. Certain products may irritate the vagina and vulva, such as disinfectants and antiseptics, so you should bear this in mind. To minimise the risk of vaginal infections you should always wipe from front to back rather than back to front after going to the toilet.

Treating vaginal thrush

Vaginal thrush treatments can come in the form of tablets, pessaries and creams. These treatments are available as either over-the-counter or prescription medications, and the choice which will be recommended will usually depend on the severity of the infection.

Non-prescription treatments

Creams are sometimes recommended as treatments to be used alongside pessaries or tablets to alleviate any soreness at the vulval area. Some medications such as Canesten are available over the counter in either tablet or pessary form. Another pessary treatment is econazole. Pessaries are fairly popular but they can be inconvenient and messy.

Some people recommend using a “natural” treatment for treating yeast infections in the form of a yoghurt remedy, which involves applying plain live yoghurt to the vulva. There is no evidence, however, to suggest that this method is effective.