Vaginal thrush is one of the most common gynaecological complaints — and yet it’s still something many women feel awkward discussing. This guide gives you everything you need to know to treat it confidently and understand when you need further help.

What Is Thrush and What Causes It?

Vaginal thrush (candidal vulvovaginitis) is caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans, a yeast that lives naturally on the skin and in the vagina of most women without causing problems. When the vaginal environment is disrupted, Candida can multiply rapidly, causing symptoms.

Common triggers include: a course of antibiotics (which kill protective lactobacilli bacteria), hormonal changes (menstrual cycle, pregnancy, oral contraceptive pill), diabetes (elevated glucose levels encourage yeast growth), immunosuppression, wearing tight synthetic underwear (warm, moist environment), and use of perfumed products in the intimate area.

Symptoms of Vaginal Thrush

  • Intense itching and irritation of the vulva and vagina
  • Soreness, particularly during sex or urination
  • White, thick, cottage-cheese-like discharge — without offensive odour
  • Redness and swelling of the vulva

The absence of a strong or fishy odour is important — it helps distinguish thrush from bacterial vaginosis (BV), which has a characteristic smell. If you’re unsure, see a GP or sexual health clinic for a swab test.

OTC Treatment Options

Topical clotrimazole cream (Canesten Thrush Cream) — applied to the external vulval area to relieve itching and soreness. Can be used alone for purely external symptoms or alongside a pessary.

Clotrimazole pessary — 1 day (Canesten 500mg) — a single pessary inserted vaginally, effective for uncomplicated thrush. Most women prefer this convenience.

3-day or 6-day pessary courses — for women who prefer a lower dose over more days, or for moderate symptoms.

Fluconazole 150mg oral capsule (Diflucan One, Canesten Oral) — a single oral capsule. Many women find this the most convenient option. Takes slightly longer to work than pessaries (usually 48–72 hours for full relief) but systemic action.

Canesten Duo — combines fluconazole capsule with external cream for comprehensive treatment of both internal infection and external symptoms.

Can Partners Get Thrush?

Male partners can develop candidal balanitis (inflammation of the glans) — redness, soreness, white patches. Canesten cream applied for 7 days treats this. In most cases, partners don’t require treatment unless they have symptoms, but if you experience recurrent thrush, treating your partner simultaneously may help.

When Self-Treatment Is Not Appropriate

Do not self-treat if: this is your first episode (see a GP to confirm diagnosis), you’re pregnant (treatment is different), you’re under 16 or over 60, you have had more than 2 episodes in 6 months (recurrent thrush needs investigation), or symptoms are not typical (unusual discharge, pelvic pain, ulcers).

Prevention

  • Cotton underwear — allows airflow and prevents moisture build-up
  • Avoid douching and perfumed intimate products — they disrupt vaginal pH
  • Complete necessary antibiotic courses as prescribed, but consider a probiotic alongside
  • If you’re diabetic, good glucose control dramatically reduces thrush risk
  • Change out of wet swimwear promptly

Shop Thrush Treatments including Canesten at Chemist 2 Customer — discreet packaging, fast delivery. Related: Women’s Health Guide, Cystitis Relief.