Intimate Health - Vaginal Thrush
It is time to end the taboo on intimate health issues. Embarrassment and shyness may often make an individual hesitant to seek help and advice when needed or seek incorrect advice. So, let’s bust the taboo and discuss vaginal thrush!
The Vagina
The vagina is a self-regulating muscle that keeps itself moist, clean and works to maintain acidic pH levels. The vagina keeps itself lubricated through the production of natural vaginal discharge, the consistency and quantity of which is affected by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, particularly oestrogen.
Vaginal Thrush: It’s more common than you think!
The presence of bacteria on the skin and vaginal area is normal. Candida albicans is a fungal yeast that naturally occurs in the vaginal region. When there are changes to the vaginal region, Candida albicans thrives. Though vaginal thrush is a common infection, it is very irritating and can be quite uncomfortable. Typical symptoms include intense itching and redness, a sensation of warmth in the vaginal region, stinging or burning when urinating. Furthermore, a thick white discharge (cottage cheese-like) is produced during vaginal thrush.
Common Causes of Vaginal Thrush
- A sexual partner who has thrush
- Wearing tight or moist clothes
- Inadequately treating the first bout of thrush
- Certain antibiotics (which have removed the normal bacteria, allowing the fungal yeast to thrive)
- Changes in hormones (e.g. menstrual changes, menopause, pregnancy etc)
- Common causes of vaginal thrush include:
- Change in sexual habits and frequency
- Immunocompromising conditions and medication
- Use of harsh chemicals and soaps
- Diabetes
- Certain contraceptives
Note: It is important to bear in mind that though sexual partners can transmit vaginal thrush, it is NOT a sexually transmitted infection. If you are concerned about or have other symptoms not listed in this article, please seek further medical advice.
