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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Is thrush serious?

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    Thrush Vulval Conditions Women's Health
    I suffer from recurring thrush, usually from intercourse and have been put on antibiotics by my GP. Is thrush a serious condition or could it lead to something more serious?
    • 2 answers
    • Women's Health Queensland Wide
    • Maria Nguyen
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    Women's Health Queensland Wide

    Women's Health Queensland Wide provides free health information for Queensland women. View Profile

    Thrush is caused by the overgrowth of yeast-like fungi called Candida. Candida inhabits the vagina, mouth and digestive tract in small numbers and is normally harmless. When the balance of naturally occurring organisms in the vagina is disrupted an overgrowth of Candida can occur. Thrush can develop as a result of the use of antibiotics, oral contraceptives or steroids. It is also more prevalent in those with diabetes, multiple sclerosis, a weakened immune system, a history of allergies or who are pregnant. Thrush does not appear to be sexually transmitted but is associated with some sexual practices (women receiving oral sex)).
    Women who suspect they may have a vaginal infection should visit their doctor Treatment for thrush involves the use of anti-fungal creams, vaginal pessaries and/or oral medication. Many of these treatments are now available over the counter (no prescription required). Women who choose to self-treat with over the counter thrush preparations should see their doctor if symptoms persist or recur as they may have a different condition or a resistant strain of thrush. Recurrent thrush infections (those that have been confirmed by a doctor) may require a longer course of treatment before they go away.
    There are a number of practices that are said to reduce a woman’s chances of getting thrush. While in some cases there is limited scientific evidence about their effectiveness, many women believe they are helpful. Practices include:
    Avoid wearing tight fitting clothing like jeans and pantyhose, underwear made from synthetic fibers and panty liners (as these creates a moist, warm environment which may encourage the growth of Candida)

    • Avoid douching and taking baths with bubble-bath, soap, bath salts (can upset the natural balance in the vagina)
    • Change underwear daily and wash underwear in hot water (to destroy fungi)
    • Maintain a strong immune system by eating a well-balanced diet, getting enough sleep, not smoking and managing stress levels
    • If prescribed antibiotics for a health complaint, ask the doctor about also taking anti-fungal preparations in combination as a preventative measure
    • Consuming yoghurt or other products (eg., capsules) containing the ‘good’ bacteria, lactobacilli. Since you said the symptoms usually happen after sexual intercourse you may like to consider (if you are using condoms) that you may be sensitive to latex. There are alternatives.- just speak to your pharmacist

    • Brenda
    • Women’s Health Educator
      Health Information Line, Women’s Health Queensland Wide

      Women living in Queensland can also call our Health Information Line - a free information and referral service for Queensland women - on 3839 9988 or 1800 017 676 (toll free outside Brisbane).

      Please note that all health information provided by Women’s Health Queensland Wide is subject to this disclaimer


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    Maria Nguyen

    HealthShare Member

    Candida (also called yeast infection, candidiasis, thrush, fungus or fungal infection) is probably the most common plague of women in their childbearing years. Candida is not a serious disease, but it might make your liefe very miserable. Symptoms of yeast infection include: 

    • Vaginal itching
    • Vaginal discharge
    • Vaginal burning
    • Burning & pain during and after intercourse
    • Urinary infections
    • Burning sensations when urinating
    • Anal itching
    • Menstrual pain
    • Chronic vaginitis
    • PMS
    • Skin rashes
    • Loss of sex drive and etc.  In order to get rid of candida you need to eliminate all the root causes of it, while fighting the candida fungus at the same time as well. The most common root causes are: 
    • mercury poisoning
    • previous use of antibiotics and lack of friendly bacteria in the body
    • hormonal imbalances and excess estrogn, and previous use of birth control pills
    • high sugar diet                                           
    So, in order to get rid of candida, you need to eliminate all of these root causes.

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