Thrush

What is it?

Thrush is a yeast infection that affects men and women. You can get Thrush without being sexually active. Antibiotics, tight clothing, strong scented bath products or intimate body sprays can cause thrush. Having unprotected sexual contact with an infected person can also pass on Thrush although it is not a STI.

What are the symptoms?

In women, the symptoms include:

Itching and soreness around the entrance to the vagina
Pain during sex
A stinging sensation when you pee
Some women may have odourless vaginal discharge which can be thin and watery, or thick and white
In men, the penis may become sore, itchy and inflamed.

How do I get tested?

You can visit any one of our centres across Walsall. Thrush is diagnosed by a simple swab from the vagina or penis.

Is there any treatment?

If your symptoms are mild, we may recommend a short course of anti-thrush medicine, which is usually taken for 1 to 3 days. If symptoms are more severe you will need to take a longer course of treatment. You can get free treatment for Thrush at any one of our centres across Walsall. You can also get treatment from your GP or local Pharmacy.

How can I prevent it?

You can prevent Thrush by always using a condom every time you have vaginal, anal or oral sex. You should also wash your genital area with water and avoid perfumed soaps, shower gels, vaginal deodorant and avoid wearing tight-fitting trousers, underwear or tights.

If you would like to know more about Thrush, visit the NHS Choices website.

Learn More About STIs