Vaginal Thrush
Many women will be affected by vaginal thrush at some stage in their lives. It’s caused by a change in the natural balance of the body’s bacteria which may give you an itchy or burning feeling.
Vaginal thrush is a common condition caused by an overgrowth of a yeast, called candida albicans, which normally inhabits the gastrointestinal tract, skin and vagina.
Identifying the symptoms
Symptoms of vaginal thrush may include:
genital itching
irritation or burning
a thick, white or creamy vaginal discharge
It’s important to note that not all vaginal discharge is thrush. You can discuss your symptoms with your pharmacist in private for advice.
Men who are infected by a partner with vaginal thrush may show symptoms such as itching or redness in the groin area or on the head of the penis – a condition known as balanitis. Symptoms may be more noticeable after sex.
How to treat vaginal thrush
Antifungal medicine is available from your pharmacist without a prescription. It comes in the form of vaginal creams, pessaries (tablets you insert into your vagina) or capsules that are taken by mouth (fluconazole).
Symptoms should clear up within a few days of using the treatment. You may need a longer course of treatment if your vaginal thrush is difficult to treat or keeps coming back. You shouldn't use antifungal medicine more than twice in 6 months without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor. Men can also use an antifungal cream to treat thrush.
Six tips to prevent thrush
The best way to prevent thrush is to identify what triggers the condition for you. It may be helpful to:
always wipe from front (vagina) to the back (anus) after urinating
avoid deodorised panty shields, bubble bath solutions or vaginal douches
avoid spermicidal condoms and use only water-based lubricants
avoid use of soap, deodorants or talcum powder on skin around the genitals
take probiotics whenever you are prescribed antibiotics
wear loose cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing
When to see your doctor
Most cases of vaginal thrush can be treated following a consultation with your pharmacist, however, you should seek your doctor’s advice if:
it’s the first time you have experienced abnormal vaginal discharge
this is your third time getting vaginal thrush in six months
you are or could be pregnant
you are under 16 years of age or over 60 years of age
you have had unprotected sex
you have pain, fever or feel unwell
your symptoms have not improved after three or four days of treatment
Clomazol
Clomazol vaginal cream is an antifungal medication used to treat vaginal yeast infections. The cream is applied internally using an applicator, once daily (often at bedtime) for a recommended number of days, depending on the severity of the infection.
It helps relieve symptoms like itching, burning, and abnormal discharge. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and avoid using tampons or engaging in vaginal intercourse during treatment unless advised otherwise.
Flora Restore®
#1 Women’s Probiotic in pharmacy. Supporting bladder and vaginal health in New Zealand’s for 15 years. Flora Restore is a unique oral probiotic to support vaginal and urinary tract health and a healthy flora balance.
What makes it special?
It contains 2 unique probiotic strains, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 ™ and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14™, which have been researched since 2001 and there are more than 30 trials using this combination.
Supports bladder and vagina health.
They have been supporting girls, teens, perimenopausal, menopausal, postmenopausal and pregnant women without issue.
Microencapsulated probiotics allow passage through the digestive system, so they can reach the bladder and vagina.
Unique foil packaging to preserve probiotic freshness.
No refrigeration required.
Suitable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Suitable for vegans.
Suitable alongside medications.
What do I use it for?
Alongside and after antibiotics for women who experience vaginal flora imbalances after these medications.
For women who experience frequent urinary tract issues.
Supports a healthy balance between good bacteria and unwanted yeasts or bacteria which may affect vaginal or bladder health.
In preconception and through pregnancy to support healthy vaginal flora.
Supports vaginal and urinary tract health post menopause.
For more information you can visit:
https://www.healthnavigator.org.nz/health-a-z/v/vaginal-thrush/
https://www.clinicians.co.nz/products/womens-health/flora-restore/
