Vaginal Thrush

Trush is an infection of vagina caused by the yeast known as Candida. Vaginal Thrush occurs when there is an imbalance in the bodies natural yeast balance. Pregnant women and women aged between 30 and 40 are most likely to suffer from thrush although many women suffer from thrush throughout their lives.

Vaginal thrush causes inflammation of the vagina which results in itching, burning, discharge (usually white, watery and thin or sometimes cottage-cheese like and thick) and an unpleasant odor. Factors that may affect the internal condition of the vagina (such as the pH level and naturally occurring bacteria) range from chemical (douches, creams, lubricants, medications etc) to a weakened immune system.

A weak immune system is not able to control and prevent the growth of the fungi as efficiently as a strong and healthy immune system. Vaginal thrush is often very uncomfortable and may cause considerable distress and even a lack of self-confidence and embarrassment.

Common Symptoms

  • irritation
  • swelling
  • vaginal discharge (usually white, watery and thin or sometimes cottage-cheese like and thick)
  • itching
  • painful and sore during sex

 Treatment

You can go to your nearest pharmacist for medication or you may try the wide-range of alternative or complementary treatments for thrush. Not all of these treatments have been proven via scientific research but these appear to be highly effective nonetheless. Many women find them helpful and effective. However, complementary treatments tend to be most effective when used as soon as you begin to notice the symptoms of thrush. If thrush reoccurs, you should go and see a doctor as there may be other factors that might have come into play.  

1. Garlic

Garlic has strong antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, and may help stop thrush in some women. Peel a garlic clove, wrap it in muslin, and insert it into your vagina. Leave the garlic in overnight. Be prepared for a strong odour of garlic while you are using this treatment.

2. Vinegar

Some women find vinegar very helpful to stop thrush but, as with garlic, the smell is quite strong. Vinegar is acidic and may help restore the pH balance of the vaginal area to give the friendly bacteria a better chance of successfully fighting off yeast. Never ever use vinegar on its own - dilute with water (1-tablespoon vinegar with 1 pint of water). Use the mixture to gently wash the outside of your vagina or dip a tampon in it and insert it over night.

3. Yoghurt

Natural live yoghurt can be used in two ways to deal with thrush: eating it and/or inserting it into your vagina. The key is not the yoghurt itself but the bacteria - lactobacillus acidophilus --in the yoghurt. This helps the body maintain and, or regain its natural pH level and keeps yeast under control.

Eating yoghurt may help keep yeast levels low throughout the body, but particularly in the stomach and intestines. Because Candida in the bowel can easily make its way to the vulva and vagina, keeping your digestive system clear of thrush can help prevent vaginal thrush.

Inserting yoghurt into your vagina may also help restore your vaginal pH balance, but there is less scientific support for this method. If you want to give it a try, put one teaspoon of yoghurt in an applicator, a plastic syringe or on a tampon, and insert it high into your vagina. Repeat this every night for a week. It is important that you use only unsweetened, plain, live yoghurt.

The active ingredient in this treatment - lactobacillus acidophilus - is also available at health food stores as a supplement on its own. Cited: Medic8, 2010.

4. Bicarbonate of soda and salt

 Add 1/2 cup each of bicarbonate of soda and salt to a warm bath and mix. Add 5 drops each of tea tree and lavender oil just before you get in and sit/soak in it for 30 minutes.

To effectively cure thrush you need to understand your body's natural balance and why this naturally occurring yeast is causing problems. Curing thrush is simple and easy once you know how and you do not even need to spend a cent on an anti-fungal treatment.

 

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 Updated: 02 March 2010