Dr HANX: Thrush 101

Our HANX Fix vaginal health service is here and we’re all about keeping you babes informed, so here’s the lowdown on the condition that also happens to be the most talked-about topic on HANX Life… give it up for thrush!

𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒆𝒙𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒍𝒚 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒉?⁠

Well, vaginal thrush is a common vaginal yeast infection that’s a type of vaginitis (inflammation of your vagina). ⁠

FYI, fungus and bacteria live pretty harmoniously in your vagina, but when the fungus Candida increases, it can cause thrush. You can also have thrush infections in other areas of the body, but we’re talkin’ about your V RN. :shell:

This usually appears when your immune system is weak (overworked, under the weather, stressed and/or burnt-out: ring any :bell:?) or when good bacteria (lactobacilli) can’t keep this fungus under control. While thrush isn’t considered an STI, it can be triggered by sex and can also occasionally be passed on during sex. :lips: :eggplant:

𝑺𝒚𝒎𝒑𝒕𝒐𝒎𝒔:⁣⁠

  • Itching and soreness in and/or around the vagina. ⁣⁠😑⁠

  • Discomfort (pain and/or burning) when passing urine or during sex.⁠ :boom:

  • Vaginal discharge - similar to cottage cheese. ⁠👀⁠

𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒐 𝒂𝒗𝒐𝒊𝒅 𝒊𝒕:⁣⁠

  • Don’t douche! Avoid vaginal washes and keep soaps and shower gels well away, too.⁠ :soap:

  • Skip synthetic underwear, cotton is your BFF on this one.⁠ :wave:

  • Hold the (washing) line: go for non-bio washing powders and fabric conditioners.⁠ :sparkles:

𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕 𝒊𝒕:⁠

Antifungal treatment is the best way to treat thrush. Our new HANX Fix service gives you the option of a cream, oral tablet or pessary, delivered straight to your door*. :pill:

WBU? How do you manage thrush and has it got worse in lockdown? (Spoiler alert: that’ll be stress…) Let us know below. :point_down:

⁠*If unsure of your condition, please seek advice from your GP/medical professional before purchase.