Throughout her life, a woman is likely to experience vaginal thrush at least once, which is the most common type of yeast infection. But for many women, it can happen more frequently. This is because the good bacteria that naturally protect and clean the vagina are quite delicate and can easily be disrupted by various external factors.
The first step in dealing with thrush is to confirm that it is indeed thrush. Most women recognize the symptoms once they’ve had it before: intense itching, swelling or redness around the vagina, and a thicker-than-usual whitish discharge. Thrush can often occur after taking antibiotics, as these medications can eliminate the beneficial bacteria along with the harmful ones. Although thrush can be transmitted through sex, it is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection.
There are several treatments available for thrush, and most mild cases can be resolved quickly. The most common treatment is a combination of a pill and a cream. The pill is taken orally, while the cream is applied to the affected area a couple of times a day to relieve itching. These treatments are available over the counter at pharmacies, so you don’t typically need to see a doctor. However, if your thrush is severe, you may need a prescription for a stronger medication. The active ingredient in many creams is clotrimazole, and some creams are more effective than others. Often, pharmacy own-brand creams are less effective due to lower levels of this ingredient.
You can also use pessaries, which are similar to pills but are inserted into the vagina like a tampon. They work directly at the site of the infection, but combining them with a cream can help relieve external symptoms. There are also natural remedies available, though their effectiveness is not well-documented. If you’re unsure about what to use, you can ask your pharmacist or check the NHS website for advice from others and healthcare professionals.
If you experience thrush frequently, such as once a month, it’s important to see a doctor. They may prescribe a long-term antibiotic treatment that can last up to six months.
Regardless of the treatment you choose, there are preventive measures you can take to avoid thrush. Avoid wearing very tight underwear made of synthetic fabrics and steer clear of heavily scented or perfumed products for washing. These can disturb the balance of bacteria in your vagina, leading to thrush. Taking these simple steps can help prevent future episodes and alleviate symptoms if you do get thrush.