References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
Thrush is a common yeast infection caused by Candida, a fungus that naturally lives on the body. It can affect the vagina, penis, mouth or other areas when conditions let the yeast overgrow. Thrush is uncomfortable but not usually dangerous, and most cases are easily treated with antifungal medication.
Here’s what to know.
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Common Types of Thrush
| Type | Where | Typical Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Vaginal thrush | Vagina and vulva | Itching, thick white discharge |
| Penile thrush | Head of penis | Redness, itching, discharge under foreskin |
| Oral thrush | Mouth, tongue | White patches, soreness |
| Nappy thrush | Skin folds in babies | Red rash with small spots |
What Causes Thrush?
- Antibiotic use (disrupts normal bacteria)
- Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menstrual cycle)
- Diabetes (especially poorly controlled)
- Weakened immune system
- Steroid inhalers or medication
- Moisture and warmth
- Sometimes sexual contact (usually not an STI)
Is Thrush an STI?
Thrush is not usually classed as an STI. The yeast is already present on the body naturally, and overgrowth happens when conditions change. That said, it can occasionally be passed between partners during sex.
Symptoms in Women
- Thick, white, cottage-cheese-like discharge
- Intense vulval itching
- Burning when urinating
- Redness and swelling
- Pain during sex
- Soreness
Symptoms in Men
- Redness on the head of the penis
- Itching or burning
- White discharge under the foreskin
- Unpleasant smell
- Tight foreskin
Treatment
- Vaginal thrush — clotrimazole cream or pessary, or oral fluconazole
- Penile thrush — clotrimazole cream
- Oral thrush — nystatin mouthwash, miconazole gel, or oral fluconazole
Most treatments are available from pharmacies without prescription.
When to See a Doctor
- First-time diagnosis (confirm it’s actually thrush)
- Recurring infections (more than 4 per year)
- Pregnancy
- Diabetes or immune suppression
- Symptoms don’t improve with treatment
- Unusual symptoms alongside thrush
Prevention
- Wear cotton underwear
- Avoid douching and scented products
- Dry thoroughly after washing
- Change out of wet swimwear and gym clothes promptly
- Manage diabetes well
- Use antibiotics only when needed
Recurrent Thrush
Recurrent thrush (four or more episodes per year) can be treated with longer-term suppressive antifungal therapy. Your doctor may investigate underlying causes like diabetes.
Read more: Yeast infection smell | Yeast vs UTI | Balanitis
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I catch thrush from my partner?
Usually not — thrush is more often a shift in your own body’s balance. Occasionally it can be passed between partners.
Will thrush go away without treatment?
Mild cases sometimes resolve on their own, but treatment is usually quicker and more reliable.
Is thrush dangerous?
Not usually. Severe cases in people with weakened immunity can be more serious.
Related reading
- What Is a Female (Internal) Condom?
- What Is Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)?
- What Is Trichomonal Vaginitis?
- Can You Test for STIs While on Your Period?
- Does a Vaginal Yeast Infection Smell?
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
