Thrush I Mateīhi

Thrush, also known as candidiasis, is a common fungal infection caused by the Candida species, primarily Candida albicans. It often affects the vaginal area but can also occur in other moist areas of the body such as the mouth and throat. It usually clears up within a week of treatment with antifungal medication. For some people, vaginal thrush tends to reoccur quite frequently. If you experience 4 or more vaginal thrush infections per year, this is called recurrent vaginal thrush.

Symptoms

Vaginal thrush:

• Itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva.
• Redness and swelling of the vulva.
• Thick, white, cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge, usually odourless.
• Pain during intercourse.
• Stinging or burning sensation when urinating.

Oral thrush:

• White patches on the tongue, inside the cheeks, or on the roof of the mouth.
• Redness or soreness inside the mouth and throat.
• Cracking at the corners of the mouth.

The signs and symptoms of vaginal thrush can be the same as the symptoms of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and bacterial vaginosis. If you are not completely sure that it's thrush, see your healthcare provider to make sure you get the correct diagnosis and treatment.

Risk factors

• Antibiotic use: A recent course of antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria, fostering yeast overgrowth.
• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, oral contraceptives, or hormone replacement therapy can trigger thrush.
• Diabetes: Elevated blood sugar levels can encourage yeast growth.
• Weak immune system: Conditions such as HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy, or steroid use can reduce immune function.
• Lifestyle factors: Tight clothing that may irritate the vulval area

When to see a doctor

• Symptoms persist after treatment with over-the-counter remedies.
• Frequent episodes of thrush (more than four times a year).
• Intense pain, swelling, or if you suspect another infection.

Diagnosis

• Clinical examination: A healthcare provider will examine the affected area.
• Swab test: A sample from the affected area (vagina, mouth) may be taken to confirm the presence of Candida.

Treatments

You can access treatment for thrush at a pharmacy, so you don’t necessarily need to see your healthcare provider if you've been diagnosed with vaginal thrush before, and your symptoms are exactly the same as last time. However, if you find that the treatment isn’t working, or you are having repeated episodes of thrush (more than twice in 6 months), you do need to see your healthcare provider.

Over-the-counter treatments:

• Antifungal creams: Available in pharmacies and include options such as clotrimazole or miconazole.
• Pessaries: Antifungal tablets inserted into the vagina.

Prescription medications:

• Oral antifungal drugs: Such as fluconazole, prescribed by your doctor.

Home remedies:

• Probiotics: Foods like yoghurt with live cultures may help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria.
• Hygiene: Keeping the affected area clean and dry, wearing loose-fitting clothes, and avoiding irritants like scented soaps or bubble baths.

Prevention

• Hygiene: Wash genital area with water and avoid using perfumed products. Loose clothing: Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes to avoid moisture build-up.
• Ensure your blood glucose level is kept under control if you have diabetes..
• Manage medication: Use antibiotics only when necessary and as prescribed.
• You can still have sex when you have vaginal thrush. However, it can be uncomfortable and you may experience a burning sensation during or after sex. Use plenty of lubricant to protect your skin and reduce the discomfort. Thrush can also pass to the mouth during oral sex. Use barrier forms of contraception (eg, condoms) to avoid passing thrush to your partner.