Vaginal Thrush

Women's Health

Itching, soreness, and thick white discharge? That’s vaginal thrush - and you don’t need to suffer in silence.
At SwiftMedi, we provide fast, effective treatments prescribed online by UK clinicians, with discreet delivery straight to your door. Relief from thrush is only a few clicks away.

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About Vaginal Thrush

Overview


Vaginal thrush is a common yeast infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans. It isn’t a sexually transmitted infection, but it can cause significant discomfort, often flaring up after antibiotics, during pregnancy, or when the body’s natural balance is disrupted.

Though uncomfortable, vaginal thrush is usually harmless and responds well to antifungal treatment. With the right medicine, most women notice improvement within a few days.


Symptoms


The most common signs of vaginal thrush include:

  • Itching or soreness around the vagina and vulva
  • Thick, white discharge resembling cottage cheese (usually odourless)
  • Redness, swelling, or irritation of the vulva
  • Stinging or burning when urinating or during sex


Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and many women experience thrush more than once in their lives.


Diagnosis


Thrush is usually diagnosed based on symptoms and medical history. Many women recognise the signs from past experience.

If symptoms are unclear, persist despite treatment, or are unusual (e.g. discharge with a strong smell or pelvic pain), further investigation may be needed to rule out other conditions such as bacterial vaginosis or STIs.


Treatments


Thrush is easily treated with antifungal medicines, available in several forms:

  • Oral capsules (Fluconazole) – a single-dose tablet that works systemically to clear infection.
  • Vaginal pessaries (Clotrimazole/Canesten) – inserted directly into the vagina to target infection at the source.
  • Antifungal creams – used externally to relieve itching and soreness around the vulva.


Many women use a combi treatment (pessary or capsule plus cream) for both internal and external relief. Most people notice improvement in 2–3 days, with full resolution within a week.


Prevention


Thrush often recurs, but some lifestyle steps may help reduce flare-ups:

  • Wear breathable cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothing.
  • Avoid scented soaps, bubble baths, and vaginal deodorants.
  • Change out of wet swimwear or gym clothes promptly.
  • Manage blood sugar levels if you have diabetes.
  • Use antibiotics only when necessary and as prescribed.



Misconceptions


“Thrush is an STI.”
No — thrush is not a sexually transmitted infection, though sex can sometimes trigger symptoms.

“Only women get thrush.”
Thrush is more common in women, but men can also develop yeast infections, especially around the genitals.

“It always needs treatment.”
Mild cases may clear on their own, but most women need antifungal medicine for fast, reliable relief.

“If it comes back, something is seriously wrong.”
Not usually. Recurrent thrush is common and often linked to triggers like antibiotics, hormones, or lifestyle factors.

Frequently asked questions

  • What is vaginal thrush and what causes it?

    Vaginal thrush is a yeast infection usually caused by an overgrowth of Candida. It can lead to itching, soreness, discharge and irritation. It often occurs when the natural vaginal balance is disrupted by antibiotics, hormones, tight clothing or health conditions.

  • How is vaginal thrush diagnosed?

    Most women recognise thrush by its typical itching, soreness and thick discharge. A clinician may confirm the diagnosis if symptoms are severe, keep returning or do not respond to treatment. Tests are rarely needed unless another cause is suspected.

  • What treatments are available for vaginal thrush?

    Treatments include antifungal creams, internal pessaries and oral fluconazole capsules. Some women prefer combination packs that treat both internal and external symptoms. Choice depends on symptoms and personal preference, and most people improve within a few days.

  • How quickly do thrush treatments work?

    Many creams and pessaries start relieving itching within a day, while oral fluconazole often works within 24 to 48 hours. Symptoms should keep improving over the next few days. If itching or discharge persists beyond a week, review your treatment with a clinician.

  • Can vaginal thrush go away on its own?

    Mild cases sometimes improve naturally, but most women need antifungal treatment to clear symptoms fully. Untreated thrush may linger or return more easily. Quick treatment usually prevents discomfort from worsening and avoids misdiagnosing similar conditions.

  • When should I see a doctor about thrush symptoms?

    Seek advice if you experience thrush for the first time, symptoms are severe, you’re pregnant, symptoms return within two months, or treatment does not work. A review is also important if discharge changes colour or has an unusual smell.

  • Is thrush sexually transmitted?

    No. Thrush is not an STI, although sex can sometimes irritate symptoms. Partners usually do not need treatment unless they have soreness or irritation. Using water-based lubricants and avoiding sex until symptoms ease may help comfort.

  • What triggers recurring vaginal thrush?

    Recurrence can be linked to antibiotics, hormone changes, diabetes, tight clothing, perfumed products or imbalance in vaginal flora. Some women flare around their period. Consistent management with antifungal treatment and lifestyle adjustments can reduce frequency.

  • Can I treat thrush if I’m on antibiotics?

    Yes. Antibiotics often trigger thrush because they disturb natural bacteria. Using an antifungal cream, pessary or fluconazole capsule can help control symptoms. If you repeatedly get thrush after antibiotics, speak with a clinician about prevention strategies.

  • Can I use thrush treatments during my period?

    Internal pessaries may be less convenient during your period, so oral fluconazole or external creams may be easier. Treatment still works, but symptoms can take slightly longer to settle due to hormonal changes.

  • Does thrush cause strong or unusual vaginal odour?

    Thrush usually does not cause a strong smell. If you notice a fishy or unpleasant odour, another condition such as bacterial vaginosis may be responsible. A clinician can help identify the correct treatment.

  • Can thrush cause burning when passing urine?

    Yes. Inflammation around the vulva can make urination sting, even though the urine itself is not infected. Applying external antifungal cream and drinking plenty of water can ease discomfort. A clinician should check if symptoms suggest a urinary infection instead.

  • Can tight clothing or gym wear worsen thrush?

    Tight or synthetic underwear can trap heat and moisture, creating conditions that allow yeast to overgrow. Switching to loose cotton underwear and avoiding prolonged damp gym wear can reduce irritation and future flare-ups.

  • Can I treat thrush during pregnancy?

    Yes, but you should avoid oral fluconazole when pregnant. Vaginal creams or pessaries are usually preferred. If symptoms are severe or you’re unsure whether it’s thrush, speak to a clinician for tailored advice.

  • What if treatment doesn’t work or symptoms keep returning?

    Persistent thrush may need a longer antifungal course, maintenance therapy or investigation for triggers like diabetes or irritants. A clinician can guide the best approach, especially if symptoms differ from your usual pattern.