Thrush or vulvovaginal candidiasis is a fungal infection of the vulva and vagina. The most frequent symptoms of infection are itching, burning and irritation of the vagina and/or vulva.

Painful urination and/or painful intercourse may also occur. Vaginal discharge is not always present or may be minimal. The thick, whitish-grey discharge is typically described as cottage cheese-like, although it can vary from watery to thick. Clinical signs include redness and swelling of the vulva/vagina as well as white plaques on the vaginal wall.

Most male partners of women with thrush do not have any symptoms of the infection. Some men, however, have reported temporary rashes and burning sensations of the penis after intercourse if they did not use condoms.
 

How do you get thrush?

Don't worry or be embarrassed about having thrush, as thrush is much more common than you might think - 3 out of 4 women have it at some point in their lives, especially if they are under the age of 20 or pregnant, and it is commonly suffered around the time of a period. 

Men are not immune. They can get thrush too, though only a few develop the rash and itchiness. Most male sufferers act as carriers, without actually having the symptoms. Men with a foreskin may suffer from thrush as this area tends to be moist and warm encouraging the growth of the fungus. To help prevent re-infection, make sure your partner is treated as well as you.

Click here for information on the causes and treatments for thrush

Reducing sugar intake prevents thrush

There is currently not enough evidence to support the potential benefit of decreasing the intake of sugary foods in an effort to reduce recurrence of thrush.