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Vaginal Thrush
- Caused by a yeast-like fungus called candida, one of many organisms that live in vagina
- These organisms are harmless until something upsets their normal balance.
- If this occurs and conditions are right, candida multiplies and can cause thrush symptoms
Signs and Symptoms
- Itching or soreness around vagina
- Burning around outside of vagina when passing urine
- Change in vaginal discharge – becomes white and cottage-cheese like
- Pain or discomfort during intercourse
- Swelling at the opening of the vagina
Self care
- Wear loose fitting cotton underwear
- Dry the genital area well after showers, baths, swimming etc
- After going to the toilet, wipe the bottom from front to back using a clean piece of toilet paper each time
- Blot rather than wipe with toilet paper when the vagina is sore
- Bathing the area using one teaspoon of salt in a litre of warm water ;20ml vinegar or lemon juice in a litre of water may relieve the symptoms
- Avoid sexual intercourse while affected by vaginal thrush
- Avoid using laundry detergents and fabric softeners for washing clothes that may irritate the area. Soap, deodorants and other perfumed products may also cause irritation
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Medicines
- Vaginal thrush medicines (tablets/ pessaries and creams) are usually inserted into the vagina using an applicator
- Have a bath or shower before using these treatments
- Wash hands well before and after using tablets or creams
- Use pantyliners to stop medicine leaking onto underwear
- Continue using medicines even during your period
- Condoms, diaphragms and cervical caps may be damaged by thrush medicines.
- Avoid using these contraceptive products during, and for three days after finishing, treatment with thrush medicines
- Pregnant should avoid using an applicator. Insert vaginal thrush medicines using a clean finger
Supplements
- Probiotics – friendly intestinal bacteria alter the vaginal environment, making it more difficult for candida to grow. It can also boost our body’s immune system and protect us from an onslaught of disease-causing bacteria, harmful fungi and viruses.
- Garlic (eg. Blackmores Odourless Garlic, VitaHealth Garlic Pearls) – has antifungal properties
- Echinacea (eg. Blackmores Echinacea) – stimulates the body’s resistance helping to reduce susceptibility to infection
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