Vaginal thrush

Vaginal thrush is a yeast infection caused by an overgrowth of the yeast-like fungi Candida albicans. An overgrowth of this fungi can cause symptoms such as:

• Vaginal discomfort (itching, burning, or soreness)
• Stinging or pain when urinating
• Vaginal discharge (thick, white ‘cottage cheese’ like appearance)
• Redness or swelling

Whilst thrush is mainly associated with women, men are also susceptible to yeast infections.

Vaginal thrush is caused by an overgrowth of the yeast candida albicans. Candida is naturally occurring and lives on the body without causing harm however, certain vaginal imbalances can occur and cause the overgrowth of candida, leading to vaginal yeast infections.

This overgrowth may occur due to:

• Recent antibiotic use
• Taking oral contraceptives or hormonal therapies
• Hormonal changes during pregnancy
• Menstrual cycle changes
• Diabetes that is not managed
• Immune system disorders
• Taking immunosuppressive medications
• Vulval skin conditions (e.g. eczema, or jock itch)

To make a diagnosis of vaginal thrush, your doctor may do the following:

• Ask about your symptoms and medical history
• Do a pelvic exam of your genitals to look for signs of infection
• Take a swab from the affected area and send it to a lab for testing
• Test your vaginal fluids

Thrush treatments are available as tablets, pessaries and creams. These can be purchased over-the-counter or on a prescription from your doctor, depending on how severe your infection is.

Antifungal creams or vaginal suppositories (pessaries)

These are administered inside the vagina via an applicator and are usually used for up to 7 days. Sometimes a second course of treatment may be needed. The active ingredient in these treatments may be clotrimazole, econazole, or miconazole. Some thrush creams can weaken condoms, so treatment should be applied after sex.

Tablets

Tablets (e.g. Fluconazole) are a more convenient option and have similar effectiveness to creams or pessaries. However, these may be more expensive than other options and are not recommended during pregnancy.

Here are some lifestyle tips that may help you to avoid vaginal thrush:

• Avoid excess washing and rinsing out (douching) of the vagina
• Avoid using bubble baths, and scented soaps near your genitals
• Avoid wearing nylon underwear or tight-fitting jeans too often. Instead, wear loose cotton pants
• Wipe your bottom from front to back after going to the toilet
• Do not stay in wet clothes (e.g. swimsuits and workout clothes) for longer than needed
• If you frequently experience thrush after taking antibiotics, speak to your GP

Yes, you can buy tablets to treat vaginal thrush online at SpeedyHealth.

First, you will need to complete an online consultation which is quick and easy. This allows our doctors to check your symptoms, medical history and decide on the correct treatment.

If approved, you will receive your treatment with free delivery and discreet packaging.