Thrush is a common yeast infection that affects women and is usually caused by a yeast fungus called candida albicans. Candida albicans usually lives harmlessly on the skin and in the mouth, gut, and vagina, but occasionally there can be too much yeast and it can cause symptoms. The following factors can increase the chances of developing thrush:
- Skin irritation or damage
- Use of products that irritate the skin such as perfumed products, bubble baths, or vaginal washing products
- Recent use of antibiotics
- Poorly controlled diabetes
- Pregnancy
- Menstrual cycle changes
- General illnesses like iron deficiency, immune system disorders, and associated vulval
It is important to note that thrush is not a sexually transmitted infection. Symptoms of thrush can include an itchy and sore vulva, a thick, white discharge that can look like cottage cheese, a dry and sore vagina during sex, and a burning feeling when passing urine. Antifungal treatments are available over the counter at pharmacies and can be useful if you are sure you have thrush and want to treat it yourself. However, it is important to take the treatment as instructed and finish any course of treatment even if the symptoms go away earlier. If you have recurrent thrush, it is recommended to consult a doctor.
