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Candida/vaginal thrush

 


What is candida/vaginal thrush?

Vaginal thrush is a yeast infection caused by an overgrowth of candida in the vagina. Candida is a substance that naturally occurs in small amounts within the body, but when too many grow in the vagina it causes an imbalance that can lead to an infection. Vaginal thrush causes extreme irritation of the vagina and its surrounding areas and can be very unpleasant.

Vaginal yeast infections are very common, affecting 75 per cent of women at some point in their lives. Many women can suffer with it on a regular basis. Thrush is not just a female problem, although women are most likely to suffer with it. Thrush can also occur in the mouth, groin and diaper areas in babies, as these areas provide the dark, moist, airless conditions that Candida thrives in.


Causes of candida/yeast infections

  • Poor general health

  • A course of antibiotics (they kill the good bacteria that keeps yeast infections in check)

  • Everday stresses

  • Sleeplessness/poor sleep

  • Poor diet

  • Contraceptive pills/IUDs

  • Pregnancy

  • Menstruation

  • Steroids

  • Diabetes

  • Immune system disorders such as HIV


Medical referral is always advisable in cases of thrush.
 

Symptoms of candida/vaginal thrush†

You may have some or all of these symptoms:

  • Itchiness around and inside the vagina

  • A burning feeling around the vagina

  • Swelling and Redness

  • Pain when passing water

  • Discomfort during sex

  • Vaginal discharge (usually thick, white and non-smelling)


Natural remedies∏

  • Homeopathy has been traditionally used to relieve the symptoms of candida and useful remedies include Sulphur, Sepia, and Pulstilla. (Always read the label on a product.)

  • Natural live yogurt (plain) either eaten or placed inside the vagina can help the body regain its natural PH balance and can help keep yeast under control.

 

Other ways to help

  • Add a little Bicarbonate of Soda to your bath as this can help by altering the acidity of the vagina.

  • Avoid scented bubble bath, sprays and creams whilst you have an infection.

  • Swap thong underwear for cotton briefs during an infection.

  • Don’t wear tight, synthetic clothes. Candida breeds in warm, moist, dark areas that synthetic fabrics such as nylon create. Try not to wear jeans, slacks or tights as much as possible during an outbreak.

  • Maintain good hygiene and change out of workout clothes/swimsuits as soon as you can.

  • Wash your underwear thoroughly during an infection, preferably on 60C heat.

  • Change tampons and sanitary towels regularly.

  • If sexually active, ask your partner to wash his hands before touching you. You should also use a condom while you have an infection. Although unlikely, men can get thrush and, if so, could easily pass it back to you.

 

† Medical referral is advisable if symptoms worsen or persist.

∏ On no account should prescribed medication be discontinued, except under a doctor’s supervision.