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Worried about thrush in men and women?

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This page summarises publicly available NHS information for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or a diagnosis. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.

What is thrush in men and women?

Thrush is a common yeast infection caused by candida. In women it typically causes vaginal itching, soreness, and a thick white discharge; in men it can cause redness, irritation, and discharge on the penis. Thrush is not sexually transmitted, but can be triggered by sex. Most cases respond quickly to antifungal treatment from a pharmacy.

When NHS resources suggest seeing a GP

  • You have symptoms of thrush for the first time.
  • You have thrush and are under 16 or over 60.
  • Thrush keeps coming back (more than 4 times in 12 months).
  • Treatment for thrush has not worked.
  • You have thrush and are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • You have thrush and a weakened immune system – for example, because of diabetes, HIV or chemotherapy.
  • You may also be able to get help from a sexual health clinic if you think you have thrush.
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Self-care information from NHS

  • There are things you can do to ease thrush and stop it coming back.
  • Use water and an emollient (like E45 cream) instead of soap to wash the affected area.
  • Dry properly after washing.
  • Wear cotton underwear.
  • Avoid sex until thrush has cleared up if sex is uncomfortable.
  • Do not use soaps or shower gels.
  • Do not use douches or deodorants on your vagina or penis.
  • Do not wear tight underwear or tights.
  • You can buy antifungal medicine from pharmacies if you've had thrush diagnosed in the past and you know the symptoms.
  • A pharmacist can recommend the best treatment for you. Ask if they have a private area to talk if you're embarrassed.
  • You should not use antifungal medicine more than twice in 6 months without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor.

Common questions

Is thrush a sexually transmitted infection?

Thrush is not classed as an STI, but it can be triggered by sex and occasionally passed between partners. You can get thrush without having sex. If thrush keeps coming back, both partners may benefit from treatment even if only one has symptoms.

How long does thrush take to clear up?

Most cases clear within 7 to 14 days with antifungal treatment from a pharmacy. If symptoms haven't improved after a week, see a GP — occasionally another condition looks similar and needs different treatment.

Can I treat thrush without seeing a GP?

Yes, if you've had thrush before and recognise the symptoms, a pharmacist can recommend antifungal cream, pessary, or tablet. See a GP for a first-time diagnosis, recurrent thrush (more than 4 times a year), or if you're pregnant.

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This page is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your individual situation. NorMed organises publicly available NHS information and is not affiliated with the NHS.