Thrush and bacterial vaginosis

The vagina normally contains helpful bacteria and a small amount of yeast. When this balance is upset, you can get symptoms. Thrush and bacterial vaginosis are both very common and nothing to be ashamed of. Neither one means your hygiene is poor.

This is caused by a yeast called candida. Typical signs are:

• strong itching and burning;
• thick white discharge like cottage cheese, usually without a strong smell;
• redness, or discomfort when passing urine or during sex.

Antibiotics, pregnancy and uncontrolled diabetes can raise the risk.

Here the helpful bacteria decrease and other types multiply. Typical signs are:

• thin, gray-white discharge;
• a fishy smell, often stronger after sex;
• little or no itching.

Bacterial vaginosis is not classed as a sexually transmitted infection, but a new partner can shift the balance.

The two conditions need different medicines, and both look like other infections. See a doctor if this is your first time, you are pregnant or symptoms keep coming back. A simple test can find the cause. Ask a doctor or pharmacist which treatment suits you.

• Do not wash inside the vagina. It cleans itself, and douching upsets the balance.
• Water or a mild, unscented wash is enough for the outside.
• Wear cotton underwear and change out of wet clothes soon.
• Avoid scented hygiene products and folk remedies such as garlic or vinegar.