Thrush - an unpleasant fungal infection
The causes of thrush
As already mentioned, thrush symptoms develop because Candida albicans is allowed to grow uninhibited due to a disturbance of the vaginal environment. Candida is naturally present in the vagina and its numbers are kept in check by bacteria, but if the bacteria are unable to perform their function, Candida can spread and grow. Thrush infections are therefore often associated with the use of antibiotics, chemotherapy, harsh vaginal cleansing treatments and even wearing tight underwear, because these factors can all have an influence on vaginal bacteria levels.
The symptoms
Thrush has a number of distinct symptoms that include: a red or swollen vulva, changes in vaginal discharge that give it a consistency similar to cottage cheese, discomfort when urinating and pain during sex. However sometimes symptoms may not be that obvious, in which case a doctor may have to perform a smear test to make a diagnosis.
Patients who are experiencing thrush symptoms for the first time should go to their doctor first, before self-medicating.
Preventing vaginal thrush
You can reduce your risk of developing a thrush infection by avoiding the use of perfumed vaginal cleansing products or body washes, you should also try and avoid wearing tight clothing and underwear that doesn't breathe.
It's important to have good feminine hygiene practices in place, but over-using vaginal disinfectants can also lead to issues. Keep your intimate cleansing regimen as simple as possible and always make sure that you rinse properly with warm water after having used a cleanser.
Vaginal thrush treatment
Thrush is such a commonly experienced feminine problem that there are many known over-the-counter and home remedies. However, in cases where an infection is particularly stubborn or keeps on returning, your doctor may recommend a prescription antifungal treatment.
Prescription thrush medications include Diflucan and Gyno-Daktarin, which are both clinically proven to target and kill the Candida fungus to restore balance. Diflucan is an oral antifungal treatment whereas Diflucan is applied directly to the affected area, although these may be used alongside one and other to form a more comprehensive treatment.
Ordering treatment online
The prescription medications Diflucan and Gyno-Daktarin are both available to order from 121doc, simply choose a treatment and complete the online consultation that makes up part of the ordering process. This will be checked by our doctor who will provide a prescription or a recommendation that is most suited to your needs. All prescriptions are passed directly to our pharmacy from where your treatment will be shipped directly to you. All orders receive free next day delivery from Royal Mail.
FAQs
Our online consultations are in the format of short medical questionnaires. You will be asked general questions about your health and medical history, as well as specific medical questions relevant to the treatment you have chosen. We will also ask you for your payment and delivery details to complete the order.
Online consultations take no longer than 5 minutes to complete. All questions are necessary when issuing prescription medicines. It means that our doctors can make sure the treatment is safe and right for you.