Thrush
Thrush is a yeast infection caused by the Candida fungus that lives naturally in the body.
It is not a sexually transmitted infection, but can be passed on through sexual contact.
It is very common and can keep coming back.
It can develop when conditions in the vagina change – such as when taking antibiotics, or hormonal changes.
Thrush is most common in people with a vagina but anyone can get it.
Symptoms can include:
- white discharge (like cottage cheese), which does not usually smell
- itching and irritation around the vagina and vulva
- soreness and stinging during sex or when you pee
- redness, but redness can be harder to see on brown and black skin
Symptoms of thrush for people with a penis can include:
- A cottage cheese-like discharge under the foreskin of the penis that may smell
- The penis may become sore, itchy and inflamed
- Stinging when you wee
Thrush has very similar symptoms to a lot of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) so if you have had unprotected sex (sex without a condom) , or if this is your first time having thrush, it is best to get tested for STIs.
Thrush has very similar symptoms to a lot of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) so if you have had unprotected sex (sex without a condom) , or if this is your first time having thrush, it is best to get tested for STIs.
Treatment is by anti-fungal medications which are widely available from:
- sexual health clinics
- GPs
- pharmacies
You can find your nearest service using our find a service tool.
You can protect against thrush by:
- Not wearing tight, restrictive or synthetic clothing (e.g. tights and nylon underwear).
- Washing and wiping the genital area from back to front.
- Using highly perfumed soap, bubble bath, genital sprays and deodorants, as this can irritate the area. (see our genital hygiene tips)
- Avoid having sex until the thrush has cleared – which also prevents spread of the infection
