Canesten Oral & Cream Duo - 1 capsule & 10g cream

Canesten Oral & Cream Duo - Canesten Oral capsule is a convenient and discreet way to help clear the infection and the Canesten 2% cream applied on the outside, rapidly cools the external symptoms.

What is thrush?

Thrush is an infection caused by a yeast called Candida. This yeast normally lives in your body quite happily without doing you any harm. But when the natural pH balance of your vagina is upset - which can easily happen - Candida can multiply. And that's when you may start to itch and develop thrush.

Who gets thrush?

Don't worry or be embarrassed about having thrush, as thrush is much more common than you might think - 3 out of 4 women have it at some point in their lives, especially if they are under the age of 20 or pregnant, and it is commonly suffered around the time of a period.

Men are not immune. They can get thrush too, though only a few develop the rash and itchiness. Most male sufferers act as carriers, without actually having the symptoms. To help prevent re-infection, make sure your partner uses Canesten Thrush Cream as well as you.

How does the infection occur?

Normally, there is a delicate balance between bacteria and yeasts that live naturally within the vagina. However, this balance is easily upset by any of the following factors which could allow the yeasts to overgrow, leading to thrush infection.

• Intake of medicines such as antibiotics
• Trauma of sexual activity or tampons
• Stress
• Perfumed soap, shower gels and bubble baths
• Menstruation
• Wearing tight clothing
• Pregnancy

The symptoms of thrush

The main symptom - and by far the most irritating - is the itching. You may also feel a burning soreness and this can be accompanied by a whitish odourless discharge. Though very uncomfortable, these symptoms can be sorted out quickly and easily, by treating at the site of infection as well as soothing the irritation. Most women seek help for relief of external itching. However, it is important that the infection is treated internally as well as externally, to prevent symptoms from returning.