How To Treat Vaginal Thrush

Vaginal thrush is a commonly known as yeast infection called candidiasis. This candidiasis infection causes overgrowth of yeast that leads to severe itching and soreness around the vagina. One of the common yeast that causes thrush is Candida albicans. Studies show that this yeast breeds in bowel, mouth and vagina. It generally causes no problem until its growth increases rapidly. Many European women will suffer from vaginal thrush once in their life time. However there are cases where many women experience persistent symptoms of thrush, these symptoms reappear after a short interval.

Symptoms:

Women suffering from vaginal thrush experience severe vaginal discomfort like itching associated with uncomfortable burning sensation. Vaginal thrush causes a thick white discharge resembling cottage cheese. Due to itching there are symptoms of inflammation and redness of vagina. Many women experience stinging or burning sensation while urinating or while having sexual intercourse.

Diagnosis:

It is imperative to note that many other vaginal conditions have symptoms similar to the vaginal thrush. To diagnose vaginal thrush your doctor will take a swab specimen from the affected area of the vagina.

Causes:

The exact reason for the development of vaginal thrush is still unknown. However studies suggest that vaginal thrush is developed due to overgrowth of the yeast Candida albicans. This yeast normally lives in vagina. Doctors suggest that yeast can overgrow due to excess intake of antibiotics or oral contraceptives. During pregnancy many women develop vaginal thrush. Women with weak immune system are generally susceptible to vaginal thrush.  It is important to note that vaginal thrush is not transmitted sexually.

Treatment:

The aim of treatment is to reduce the level of candidal infection by the use of an antifungal agent. The usual treatment for vaginal thrush is anti-fungal pessaries containing the antifungal agents clotrimazole, econazole, miconazole or nystatin which are inserted into the vagina with a special applicator. You can use Canesten 100mg Pessary, as it is very effective in treating symptoms of recurrent vaginal candidiasis. These agents are also available in the form of intravaginal creams that may be used instead of a pessary.

Lower strength creams applied to the genital area will also help to soothe the itching outside the vagina, or may be applied to the partner’s genital area to reduce the risk of re-infection. For external use you can use Clotrimazole 1% Cream, it is used to treat fungal skin infection like thrush. The creams are generally applied on the vulva.

Alternatively, oral tablets containing fluconazole, ketoconazole or itraconazole can be used to deal with Candida wherever it is present in the body. They are very effective, especially when the thrush is persistent. Many women prefer oral treatments to the use of intravaginal pessaries or intravaginal creams as they find them easier and less messy to use.

Prevention:

Maintaining adequate hygiene will prevent recurrent vaginal thrush. It is important that you wipe your genitals properly after going to the toilet. Avoid using scented soaps and sprays on genitals, as this can lead to irritation. Use of soap substitute like Sorbolene-glycerine cream is recommended. Avoid tight-fitting pants and synthetic under wears to prevent skin irritation, instead wear lose clothes that may help your skin to breathe in properly.