Feminine Care

Thrush is a common yeast (fungal) infection, usually caused by the Candida yeast, which most often affects the vagina and vulva but can also affect men and other areas. Typical symptoms include itching, soreness and a thick white discharge; it is not classed as a sexually transmitted infection.

Thrush happens when the naturally occurring Candida yeast multiplies, which can be triggered by things like antibiotics, pregnancy, diabetes, a weakened immune system, or irritation from tight clothing and perfumed products. It is very common and usually easily treated.

Thrush is treated with antifungal medicines - a pessary, internal cream or capsule, plus an external cream for the itching - which you can get from a pharmacy. See your GP if it is your first episode, you are pregnant, under 16 or over 60, it keeps coming back, or the treatment does not work.

Yes, men can get thrush, usually affecting the head of the penis and causing irritation, redness and itching. It is treated with an antifungal cream from a pharmacy; see a GP if it does not clear up or keeps returning.

Mild thrush can sometimes settle by itself, but it is usually more comfortable and reliable to treat it with an antifungal from the pharmacy. If it keeps coming back, is severe, or you are pregnant, see your GP to check the cause.

Yes - antibiotics can upset the natural balance of bacteria that normally keep the Candida yeast in check, which is why some people get thrush during or after a course. It is easily treated, and you can ask your pharmacist about it if it happens.