Vaginal Thrush - Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
Vaginal thrush is caused by the Candida yeast, a type of fungus. Candida occurs naturally in the vaginal area and is normally kept in check by mucus secretions, harmless bacteria and other fungal organisms that live on the skin and in the vagina. A thrush outbreak occurs if this balance is lost and there is an overgrowth of the Candida. The yeast multiplies, invades the vagina and can cause undesirable symptoms.
Vaginal thrush symptoms
Yeasts thrive in warm, moist conditions which is why Candida commonly affects the vagina in women. Thrush does not damage the vagina but it can cause itchiness, discomfort and redness around the vulva (the outside part of the vagina). Although a creamy colored discharge is a commonly associated with thrush, there are other causes of vaginal discharge un-related to a Candida infection.
Vaginal thrush causes and diagnosis
Vaginal thrush is very common - far more common than thrush in men. In fact it is estimated that more than half of all women have a thrush infection during their lifetimes. A thrush outbreak occurs when the natural defenses in the vagina are upset through the (over)use of antibiotics and steroids as well as due to certain nutrient deficiencies. Diabetics, pregnant mothers and people with a weak immune system are also more susceptible to thrush.
Thrush is not normally contracted as a result of sexual intercourse as the Candida yeast lives harmlessly in and around the skin of the vagina. Problems only occur if it multiplies rapidly to cause negative symptoms.
The diagnosis of thrush is normally carried out through analysis of symptoms and external signs of the infection. If needed, a health professional can take a swab sample and have this tested at a laboratory.
Vaginal thrush treatment
The most common treatments for thrush are topical (i.e. applied externally). These take the form of creams and pessaries inserted into the vagina with an applicator and rubbed onto the skin around the vulva. Most topical medications contain known anti-fungal and anti-yeast agents and many are available without a prescription.
Some sufferers have had positive results from natural and home remedies for a vaginal thrush infection including yoghurt, vinegar baths and tea tree oil. These are designed to restore the natural pH balance within and around the vagina. Side effects are rare with but it should be noted that these treatment types have not been tested clinically for the treatment of vaginal thrush or other fungal and yeast infections. Certain holistic treatments are clinically proven, such as this 5 step system to eliminating Candida overgrowth. It also makes sense to research anti Candida diets designed to reduce the intake of food types that encourage fungal and yeast growth.
Oral medications in the form of tablets are also available on prescription. If you suspect a case of thrush, it always makes sense to discuss your condition with a doctor or health professional before embarking on a treatment.
Information on this site is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is not intended as professional medical advice and should not be used to substitute for a doctor's recommendation. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease or for choosing any medication. Any individual who develops a fungal infection should consult a licensed physician for proper diagnosis and treatment. Disclosure: Compensated Affiliate. Please read our Disclaimer.
