Thrush: what are the risk factors, and does it always need treating?
Written by:
Obstetrician - gynaecologist
Published: 01/06/2022
Edited by: Conor Lynch
Top Doctors recently had the chance to quiz esteemed London-based consultant gynaecologist, Mr Mahantesh Karoshi, on what typically makes women susceptible to vaginal yeast infections, and how these infections are most effectively treated.
What makes a woman susceptible to vaginal yeast infections? What are the main risk factors?
Fluctuations in oestrogen makes women susceptible from a physiological point of view. Also, taking antibiotics lasting a week or more will wipe out the good acidophilic commensal bacteria from the vagina.
There are many other risk factors associated with vaginal yeast infections, with the main ones including the following:
diabetes (undiagnosed or poorly controlled) steroids taking specific medication for rheumatoid arthritis
How does a woman's menstrual cycle affect their chances of developing thrush?
As oestrogen levels fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, women’s proneness to yeast infections changes depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle they are in.
How does thrush affect a woman's lifestyle?
Thrush can cause depression and anxiety. It can also affect women’s self-confidence and their relationship with their partner.
What are the most effective treatment options for this?
Prevention is the best strategy. Also, wearing cotton underwear, avoiding scented feminine products, always wiping from front to back, making sure sure to change clothes after exercise, and avoiding tight-jeans are all highly effective measures to take when it comes to preventing an onset of thrush.
If over-the-counter yeast infection treatment is not helping to relieve symptoms, women should then seek help from an experienced obstetrician and/or gynaecologist.
Is treatment ever really required? If so, when and why?
Treatment for yeast infections is not always required. Treatment is only needed for women with symptoms such as an intense itching sensation.
Book a consultation with Mr Mahantesh Karoshi today via his Top Doctors profile if you are concerned about how thrush is affecting your day-to-day life.