What is vaginal thrush?
Vaginal thrush is a common yeast infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a fungus that naturally lives in the vagina. Symptoms include itching, burning, soreness, and a thick white discharge.
It's very common — most women will experience thrush at some point. It's not an STI and doesn't mean you're unclean. Antibiotic use, pregnancy, diabetes, and a weakened immune system can all increase your risk.
Treatment options
Thrush can be treated with antifungal creams, pessaries (inserted into the vagina), or oral tablets (fluconazole). Some of these are available over the counter at a pharmacy, while others require a prescription.
If you're confident it's thrush and have had it before, a pharmacist can help. But if it's your first time, your symptoms are different than usual, or treatment isn't working, it's worth seeing a GP to confirm the diagnosis.
When to see a GP
See a GP if this is your first episode, if over-the-counter treatment hasn't worked after a few days, if you have unusual bleeding or pain, or if you get thrush more than four times a year.
Recurrent thrush (four or more episodes per year) needs investigation — there may be an underlying cause such as undiagnosed diabetes, a different infection, or a skin condition that's being mistaken for thrush.
Related condition
Vaginal & vulval health →References & sources
- 1.Vaginal thrush — healthdirect
- 2.Vaginal thrush — Better Health Channel
- 3.Bacterial vaginosis — Better Health Channel
- 4.Vulva and vagina — Jean Hailes for Women's Health
This content is general information and not a substitute for individual medical advice. Please consult a GP for your personal situation.
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