A Common Yeast Infection
Thrush causes intense itching and thick white discharge. While not an STI, it can cause similar symptoms. Most women experience thrush at least once - treatment is usually simple and effective.
Vaginal thrush (candidiasis) is a yeast infection caused by Candida species, most commonly Candida albicans. It's extremely common - about 75% of women will experience thrush at some point, and many have recurrent episodes. Thrush is not a sexually transmitted infection but results from overgrowth of yeast naturally present in the vagina. Treatment is usually straightforward.
Classic symptoms often suggest thrush, but similar symptoms occur with other conditions. We can examine discharge and perform microscopy or culture to confirm Candida and rule out bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, or other causes. If you've self-treated without improvement, professional diagnosis is important as you may not have thrush.
Antifungal treatment is highly effective. Options include oral fluconazole (single dose or short course) or topical treatments (clotrimazole cream or pessaries). Severe or recurrent thrush may need longer or maintenance treatment. Partner treatment is usually unnecessary unless they have symptoms. If standard treatment fails, culture can identify resistant strains.
No, thrush is not an STI. It's caused by overgrowth of yeast naturally present in your body. However, thrush can occasionally be passed to sexual partners causing symptoms, and sex can trigger thrush by disrupting vaginal balance. Male partners usually don't need treatment unless they have symptoms.
Evidence for natural remedies like yogurt, garlic, or tea tree oil is limited and some may cause irritation. Antifungal medications are proven effective and readily available. While probiotics may help prevent recurrence, they're not reliable treatment for active thrush. We recommend proven treatments for reliable results.
Recurrent thrush (4+ episodes/year) affects some women and can be frustrating. Triggers include antibiotics, hormonal changes, diabetes, and immune issues. Non-albicans Candida species may be involved and respond differently to treatment. We can investigate causes and provide prevention strategies including maintenance treatment if needed.
Yes, men can get penile thrush causing redness, itching, and discharge under the foreskin. It's more common in uncircumcised men, diabetics, and after antibiotic use. While thrush isn't sexually transmitted, it can be passed between partners. Men with symptoms should be treated. Asymptomatic male partners usually don't need treatment.
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