Thrush
What is thrush?
Thrush is caused by a very common and harmless yeast which lives mainly in the gut. Occasionally the yeast gets out of control and this can cause discomfort for both men and women in the genital area.
What are the symptoms?
Men:
- Itchiness, burning and irritation under the foreskin or tip of the penis.
- Red patches under the foreskin or the tip of the penis.
- Difficulty pulling back the foreskin.
- A thick, cheesy discharge under the foreskin.
Women:
- Vaginal discharge which is thick, cheesy and smells like yeast.
- Itchiness, soreness and redness around the vagina, vulva or anus.
- Swollen vulva.
- Pain during sex or while peeing.
What should I do if I have thrush?
If you think you or your partner have thrush, you can visit your doctor or a GUM clinic for treatment. You can also buy thrush treatments over the counter at pharmacies.