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Infections

THRUSH

Vaginal discharge in women can be a normal "physiological" occurrence or caused by infections. Not all infections are sexually transmitted. If you are unsure it is important to have a check-up.

Candida Albicans (Thrush)

This is caused by a yeast that normally lives harmlessly on the skin, or in the mouth, gut and vagina without causing any problems. Normally it is kept in check by harmless bacteria, but occasionally conditions change and the yeast increases rapidly, causing symptoms known as Clinical Thrush or Candidiasis.

Signs and Symptoms

Thrush can occur in men and women. It is more likely to occur in uncircumcised men.

Women:

  • Itching, soreness, redness around vagina, vulva, anus
  • Thick white vaginal discharge
  • Pain on sex or passing urine

Men:

  • Irritation, burning, itching under foreskin or tip of penis
  • Redness or red patches under foreskin or tip of penis
  • Thick discharge under foreskin
  • Difficulty in retracting the foreskin
  • Discomfort on passing urine

How Thrush develops

It can develop due to:

  • Pregnancy
  • Antibiotic use
  • Sex with someone who has a Thrush infection
  • Excess use of vaginal soaps/bubble baths etc
  • Diabetics and people who are immunosuppressed

Tests for Thrush

This involves a genital examination by the doctor. Swabs are taken from whichever place may be infected.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Samples taken are looked at under the microscope - the result may be available immediately. A second sample may be tested in our laboratory for confirmation.

Treatment is easy - women may be given pessaries (long tablets) to insert into the vagina, using an applicator and also a cream. The cream is applied externally to the genital area. The active drug in the pessaries and cream is " Clotrimazole" (trade name Canesten). Often the cream will also include some "Hydrocortisone" (a mild steroid). Occasionally pills called "Fluconazole" are given instead.

Follow-up

If symptoms do not resolve it is advisable to return for a check-up. Complications are rare.
Individual advice about having sex can be obtained on your visit.
Appointments available Mon - Sat from 8am

Call London on:

0207 291 6677

Call Manchester on:

0161 834 5888

Tests available include:

  • HIV
  • Bacterial Vaginosis
  • Chlamydia
  • Genital Warts
  • Gonorrhoea
  • Hepatitis B & C
  • Herpes Simplex virus
  • Human Papilloma Virus
  • Non-specific urethritis (NSU)
  • Syphilis
  • Urinary infections

Treatment available for impotence and erection problems

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