Canesten 2% Cream (clotrimazole) is an antifungal treatment used to relieve external itching, redness and soreness caused by vaginal thrush. It works by stopping yeast from multiplying on the skin around the vulva. It is usually used alongside an internal treatment such as a pessary or fluconazole capsule.

Apply a small amount to the affected external area two or three times a day, gently smoothing it over the skin. Wash and dry the area first, and avoid perfumed soaps. Continue using the cream for as long as your clinician or the leaflet advises.

Itching and discomfort often begin to ease within a few hours, with steady improvement over the next few days. Full recovery may take up to a week depending on how severe your symptoms are and whether you’re also using an internal treatment.

It can help soothe external symptoms, but it does not treat internal thrush on its own. Most women need both an internal treatment and an external cream for complete relief. If symptoms remain only on the skin, the cream alone may be sufficient.

Yes, but pregnant women should usually avoid oral fluconazole and instead use creams or pessaries.Canesten 2% Cream can relieve external irritation safely, though internal treatment may still be needed for full resolution.

Most people tolerate it well. Mild stinging, burning or redness may occur shortly after application, especially if the skin is very sore. These effects usually settle quickly. Stop using it and seek advice if irritation becomes worse.

Avoid use if you’re allergic to clotrimazole or other antifungals in the same family. If you have unusual discharge, persistent bleeding, new pain, or symptoms that don’t resemble thrush, you should get medical advice before use.

Yes. External burning often comes from irritated skin rather than the urine itself. Applying the cream regularly soothes soreness, making urination more comfortable. If burning feels internal or you have urinary symptoms like frequency or cloudy urine, speak with a clinician.

Yes. The cream still works during your period, though symptoms may take slightly longer to settle due to hormonal changes. Internal treatments such as pessaries may be less convenient during menstruation.

The cream can weaken latex condoms and diaphragms, making them less reliable until the treatment is fully absorbed or completed. If you use barrier contraception, consider alternatives such as internal capsules during treatment.

Yes. The antifungal clears the infection while the emollient base soothes irritated skin. Regular application helps calm inflammation caused by scratching, though you should avoid further irritation by using gentle soaps and loose clothing.

Yes. Clotrimazole can also treat external yeast infections in moist skin folds such as the groin. Apply it thinly to the affected area and keep the skin dry. If symptoms extend internally, a different product may be required.

No. Thrush discharge is usually odourless. A strong or fishy smell suggests bacterial vaginosis or another condition that needs different treatment. If odour is present, seek assessment before applying the cream.

A brief stinging sensation is common, especially if the skin is very irritated. This usually settles quickly. If stinging becomes severe or gets worse after repeated use, stop treatment and seek advice.

You may need an internal treatment or oral fluconazole if the infection is not fully resolved. Recurrent symptoms may have triggers such as antibiotics, hormones or tight clothing. A clinician can recommend a longer-term plan if episodes keep returning.