Vaginal candidiasis (thrush)

75% of women will have at least one episode of thrush in their lifetime and about 5% of these women will have it repeatedly. Thrush is caused by a fungus called candida which can grow and cause symptoms if your skin is irritated or damaged, you’re taking antibiotics, you have uncontrolled diabetes, you have a weakened immune system, you have been through the menopause or you are pregnant.

Symptoms include:

• Itching and irritation of the skin around the vagina
• Thick, white, odourless discharge
• Soreness or stinging when you pee

Simple changes to personal hygiene like using water and emollient instead of soap to wash, drying properly after washing, wearing cotton underwear, taking showers instead of baths and avoiding sex or using condoms until thrush is treated can help. Avoid using soaps or shower gels, douches or deodorants and wearing tight underwear. You should see a doctor if you are under 16 or over 60 years old, your symptoms keep coming back or treatment has not worked, you’re pregnant or breastfeeding or you have a weakened immune system.