Thrush is an infection which causes vaginal discharge, itching and soreness. It is usually caused by the Candida Albicans Yeast. Lots of women carry this yeast, which is fungal related, and it lives in their body (vagina, skin, bowel), without causing problems. Problems occur when the body's systems become imbalanced and the good bacteria which reside in these areas are unable to combat the overgrowth of the yeast. The vagina has a naturally acidic environment, which along with the body's own defence system (immune system) also prevents yeast overgrowth. When the natural balance becomes disturbed yeast begins to multiply and grow in the vagina. The vaginal tissues become irritated and you get the very common symptoms of thrush which include discharge, itching, redness and irritation as well as tenderness and swelling of the outside of the vagina (vulva).

Thrush is an infection which causes vaginal discharge, itching and soreness. It is usually caused by the Candida Albicans Yeast. Lots of women carry this yeast, which is fungal related, and it lives in their body (vagina, skin, bowel), without causing problems. Problems occur when the body's systems become imbalanced and the good bacteria which reside in these areas are unable to combat the overgrowth of the yeast. The vagina has a naturally acidic environment, which along with the body's own defence system (immune system) also prevents yeast overgrowth. When the natural balance becomes disturbed yeast begins to multiply and grow in the vagina. The vaginal tissues become irritated and you get the very common symptoms of thrush which include discharge, itching, redness and irritation as well as tenderness and swelling of the outside of the vagina (vulva).

Wearing tight jeans or nylon tights is not a good idea because yeast naturally thrives in moist, warm surroundings. Comfortable, loose fitting natural fibres are best as these allow the skin to breathe. Make sure you always wear cotton undies. The vagina and its surrounding tissues are delicate so any irritation can increase the likelihood of you suffering with thrush. Be particular about bath products and soap powders so as to avoid harsh perfumes and chemicals as much as possible. Do not rub too hard with bath towels as this could further injure delicate tissues. Symptoms can worsen after sexual intercourse due to the delicate lining of the vagina becoming irritated, so you may wish to abstain during an attack. You could also pass the infection to your partner, and men do not always outwardly show the symptoms. With this in mind, it is worth asking your partner to see his doctor if you keep getting attacks of thrush even after you have treated it, as its possible he may require treatment himself. If he has symptoms such as itchiness, red spots or soreness of the penis he should get treated anyway.