Vaginal thrush

What is thrush?

Vaginal thrush, also known simply as thrush, is an extremely common yeast infection that affects around 3 in 4 women at some point in their lives. While it can occur at any age, it is most prevalent among women in their twenties and thirties. Thrush is less common in post-menopausal women and young girls who have yet to start menstruating.

Thrush is caused by an overgrowth of a naturally occurring fungus known as Candida albicans, which is typically found in the vagina and digestive system. Now, the thing about fungi is that they prefer nice, warm and moist environments and unfortunately, these areas on the human body include the genitalia. But luckily, when the body is healthy, there is a state of harmony or balance. The fungi, bacteria and pH are finely balanced, and any disruption to this vaginal ecosystem can lead to either vaginal thrush or bacterial vaginosis. So, when this balance is tipped one way, bacteria predominate, and the result is bacterial vaginosis, while if it swings the other, the result is vaginal thrush. So, that’s why it’s important to maintain the ying and yang of your vagina, later on you can learn how to do this, but you will have to keep reading to find out!

Although vaginal thrush is usually harmless, it can be uncomfortable and irritating if not treated.

What causes thrush?

Thrush occurs when the balance of bacteria and fungi in the vagina is disrupted, allowing Candida albicans to multiply excessively. This imbalance can be triggered by various factors, including:

• Weakened immune system: Conditions such as HIV, AIDS, or chemotherapy can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to control Candida growth.
• Diabetes: Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can create an environment that encourages yeast overgrowth. Who would have known that fungi had a sweet tooth?
• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause can all alter hormone levels, increasing the risk of thrush.
• Antibiotic use: Antibiotics can disrupt the natural bacterial balance in the vagina, leading to an overgrowth of Candida.
• Tight or synthetic clothing: Wearing non-breathable clothing, like nylon underwear, can create a warm, moist environment that promotes yeast growth.
• Perfumed products: The use of scented soaps, shower gels, and other perfumed products can irritate the vaginal area, contributing to an imbalance.
• Poor diet: A diet high in processed foods and sugar can encourage yeast overgrowth.

What are the symptoms of thrush?

While some women may not experience any symptoms, common signs of vaginal thrush include:

• Itching and soreness: Intense itching and irritation around the vagina and vulva.
• Vaginal discharge: A thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge that is usually odourless.
• Pain during sex: Discomfort or pain during intercourse.
• Burning sensation: A stinging or burning sensation, particularly when urinating.
• Redness and swelling: Redness, swelling, and cracking of the skin around the vagina.

In men, symptoms of penile thrush can include:

• Redness and swelling: Inflammation around the head of the penis.
• Itching and soreness: Irritation around the penile area.
• Discharge: A thick, lumpy discharge under the foreskin.
• Pain during urination or sex: Discomfort when urinating or during intercourse.

What treatment options are available for thrush?

Thrush can be effectively treated using a variety of over-the-counter and prescription medications, including tablets, creams, and pessaries:

• Fluconazole capsules: A convenient, single-dose oral treatment that typically clears up thrush within a few days.
• Clotrimazole cream: Applied externally to the affected area, this cream helps relieve itching and irritation.
• Clotrimazole pessaries: Inserted into the vagina to treat Candida internally. These are available in varying strengths and are often used in conjunction with external creams.

How to use thrush treatments

• Fluconazole capsule: Swallow the capsule whole with water. If symptoms persist beyond five days, consult your doctor.
• Clotrimazole cream: Apply a thin layer to the affected area two to three times daily until symptoms disappear. This cream can also be used by men and applied to the penis.
• Clotrimazole Ppessary: Insert the pessary into the vagina using the applicator provided, preferably at bedtime. I think it goes without saying that this cannot be used by men.

How to prevent thrush

You can reduce your risk of developing thrush by following these preventive measures:

• Maintain good hygiene: Wash the genital area with water and avoid using perfumed soaps or vaginal deodorants.
• Wear breathable clothing: Choose cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothing.
• Avoid irritants: Steer clear of products known to irritate the genital area, such as scented toiletries.
• Manage diabetes: Control your blood sugar levels if you have diabetes.
• Dry properly: Ensure the genital area is thoroughly dried after bathing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Avoid overuse of antibiotics: Use antibiotics only when necessary and as prescribed.

Differences between bacterial vaginosis and vaginal thrush

While both bacterial vaginosis (BV) and vaginal thrush can cause discomfort in the vaginal area, they are different conditions with distinct causes and symptoms:

Cause

• Bacterial Vaginosis: Caused by an imbalance of the natural bacteria in the vagina, leading to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria.
• Vaginal Thrush: Caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans.

Symptoms

• Bacterial Vaginosis: Often characterized by a thin, watery, greyish discharge with a strong, fishy odor. Itching and irritation are less common.
• Vaginal Thrush: Typically causes a thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge, intense itching, redness, and soreness around the vagina.

Treatment

• Bacterial Vaginosis: Treated with antibiotics such as metronidazole or clindamycin.
• Vaginal Thrush: Treated with antifungal medications like fluconazole or clotrimazole.

Understanding the differences between BV and thrush is important for ensuring you receive the correct treatment. If you’re unsure about your symptoms, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional.

When to seek immediate medical attention

While thrush is generally not serious, there are certain situations where you should seek immediate medical attention:

• Severe symptoms: If you experience intense pain, significant swelling, or fever.
• Recurring infections: If thrush keeps returning despite treatment.
• Pregnancy: If you develop thrush during pregnancy, consult your doctor before starting treatment.
• Spreading infection: If the infection appears to spread or you develop other symptoms like blood-stained discharge.

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