Thrush

Thrush is caused by Candida, a yeast that normally lives harmlessly in vagina where the natural acidic environment keeps it under control. However, if vaginal acidity changes, the yeast can multiply and rapidly causing symptoms.


	Symptoms
	Vaginal itching and soreness White vaginal discharge

	Causes
	Pregnancy Tight and synthetic clothes Some antibiotics Perfumed bubble baths and soaps Sexual intercourse Periods Contraceptive pill

	Treatment
	Thrush is easy to treat and treatments are available from your pharmacy. Internal creams and pessaries work at the site of infection to get rid of the cause of the thrush. External creams relieve and soothe itching and soreness.

	Prevention
	Shower, wash or bathe after exercise Avoid wearing tight jeans and nylon underwear Avoid hot baths and bubble baths Don't scrub the skin hard with sponges and flannels Eat well, exercise and relax

	Seek medical advice
	Seek advice from your healthcare professional if... symptoms fail to improve you get repeated attacks you have a foul smelling discharge you have abnormal vaginal bleeding you have pain when passing urine you are pregnant

	Recommended web sites
	Vaginal thrush A leaflet from Patient UK about vaginal thrush Canesten A link to the Canesten website which supplies treatments for thrush and further information about it