Vaginal Thrush

Vaginal Thrush

Vaginal thrush is a common overgrowth of yeast called Candida albicans. It is the most common yeast infection among women and it is extremely common although some women seem to be more susceptible. Despite it being common, and the ready availability of treatments it is an unpleasant infection that causes some women a great deal of unnecessary embarrassment.

Because vaginal thrush can be a recurring complaint it can affect and disrupt a woman’s sex life.

Vaginal thrush is not a sexually transmissible infection (STI) but can be passed on to a partner during sexual intercourse. Male Thrush can be just as easily treated in men as vaginal thrush can be in women. Most women will have an attack of thrush at some time in their lives, with some women being susceptible to recurrent attacks more than others. Although it is the most common gynecological infection in the western world; its association with wider health issues is not established but often suspected.

Vaginal Thrush Symptoms

Thrush most commonly affects women in their thirties and forties, and those who are pregnant. It is accompanied by a range of unpleasant symptoms, such as painful or irritating itching and soreness around the vaginal area, a chalky white discharge, pain during sexual intercourse and painful urination. Scratching will only make the problem worse.

Despite the sometimes difficult symptoms, vaginal thrush cannot damage the vagina, affect the ability to have children, and cannot cause cervical or any other form of cancer.

Causes of Vaginal Thrush

Vaginal thrush is caused by a change in the body’s natural pH balance. This can be affected by:

• Emotional or physical stress
• The use of antibiotics
• Dermatitis or eczema
• Diabetes or raised glucose levels
• Conditions that can affect the immune system (such as HIV)

Aggravating factors also include wearing too-tight clothing that’s too tight, and using strongly perfumed bath oils or personal care products.

Vaginal Thrush Treatment

Thrush can be effectively treated using antifungal medications which conveniently include vaginal creams and pessaries, and more recently with tablets taken by mouth. These medications stop the growth of Candida yeast without affecting the “helpful” bacteria in the vagina.

Other Tips for Preventing Vaginal Thrush

The best way to avoid recurrences is to identify the underlying factors what triggers the condition. Your doctor can help with investigating and managing any underlying condition. Despite that, apart from treating the symptoms, the tips below may assist to reduce the risk factors for those affected by recurrent thrush. Avoid deodorised panty shields, bath products, bath solutions or vaginal douches.

• Wear loose cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing
• After urinating, women should always wipe from the front (vagina) to the back (anus)
• Uncircumcised men should wash and dry under their foreskin daily
• Avoid use of soap, deodorants or talcum powder on the vulva or penis
• Avoid spermicidal condoms and use only water-based lubricants