What is thrush?

The fungal infection known as thrush is very common and easily treated. It occurs when the conditions within the vagina change causing the yeast-like substance Candida, which naturally lives within the vagina, to overgrow.

This can happen for several reasons including hormones changes during pregnancy, douching with scented products such as soaps and taking medications including antibiotics. Although it is not harmful, thrush can be irritating and painful so finding a suitable treatment can be very beneficial. Symptoms include:

• itching around the vagina including the vulva
• soreness during sex
• stinging during urination
• a discharge which is usually unscented and white with the appearance of cottage cheese

Treatment is usually simple and effective though it is important to not just deal with the symptoms. There is a wide range of available options for the treatment of thrush which will work on destroying the main cause of the infection whilst easing the symptoms as well, including the itch and soreness. One study noted that 97% of its participants were cured and/or improved after 5 days with the use of the oral treatment fluconazole.

But this time can vary from patient to patient with some clearing up within 2 days as the Candida growth is slowed down and ultimately stopped.

Thrush treatment is safe and effective to take in the majority of women. One study demonstrated that the side effects of thrush treatments is low and tends to be limited to mild gastrointestinal issues such as an upset stomach. With all medications, there is the possibility of some patients suffering from side effects or allergies, so if you suffer from any issues after using a treatment, then contact your doctor or seek medical help right away if necessary.

It is generally considered safe to use thrush treatments during pregnancy and/or when breastfeeding but it is recommended that you consult your doctor before using a thrush medication to ensure the safety of you and your baby.

There are several forms of treatment for thrush available making it suitable for every patient. They include:

• oral
• pessaries (intravaginal tablets)
• creams

Some treatments come in a double format such as Canesten Duo which enables you to treat the thrush from within and at the site of the irritation through the use of an oral tablet and a cream.

Thrush treatments can be purchased online via Click Pharmacy. You will be prompted to fill in a health questionnaire which will allow our in-house doctors to ensure that this is the appropriate medication to treat your symptoms.

You can have a free, confidential and online appointment with a doctor if they have any further questions or if you have any questions about your thrush.

Once you have been approved for a prescription you can purchase your treatment which will be sent discreetly to your chosen address via next day delivery.

The medication will get to work right away once it has been used/taken. The treatment deals with the cause of the infection by destroying the Candida overgrowth. The full benefits of this are usually seen within a week, though many patients say they notice an improvement within as little as 2 days.

All medications can cause side effects as they occur due to how each person’s body can tolerate a drug. Thrush treatments tend to be linked to only mild side effects in the majority of patients and they can include:

• stomach pain
• diarrhoea
• nausea
• headache

If you experience any more severe side effects including, blistering, burning or stinging at the source of application, a rash, severe pelvic or abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding, then stop using the treatment and consult your doctor or seek medical help if necessary.