Thrush
Thrush is a very common infection caused by yeast, also called candida. This usually lives harmlessly on skin and in the mouth, gut and vagina, but under certain conditions the yeast multiples causing some uncomfortable symptoms. Around three quarters of women will experience vulvo-vaginal thrush (candidiasis) during their lifetime.
Where does it come from?
Thrush is not sexually transmitted but having sex can irritate the vagina and make the symptoms more noticeable.
Some people can experience recurrent vaginal thrush. This can happen for no apparent reason. Other causes of thrush include, taking a course of antibiotics, using perfumed products to clean the vagina and wearing tight fitting trousers. People with diabetes as well as some medication and health problems that affect the immune system can also make people more prone to thrush. Thrush can less commonly affect the penis.
Symptoms
Symptoms of thrush include itching, soreness and swelling around the genital area, a thick white discharge and burning discomfort during sex.
Testing
A doctor/nurse may be able to confirm you have thrush just by your symptoms or they may take a swab to test for thrush.
Treatment
There are a few treatments for thrush. Vaginal thrush is best treated with either anti-fungal pessary or tablet. Clotrimazole cream can be used for penile thrush.
You can find more information about Thrush on the NHS Inform page Thrush | NHS inform.
