What is thrush?

Thrush is not a venereal disease. The infection is caused by a microscopic fungus that comes from yourself. Even when you are symptom-free, the fungus can be found in very small amounts on the mucous membranes of the lower abdomen.

The fungus thrives where it is moist, warm and dense.

The amount of fungus increases if the fungus receives appropriate nutrition. Women of childbearing age are more often affected because they have higher levels of the female hormone estrogen, which nourishes the fungus. The fungus thrives where it is moist, warm and dense, so the genitals are a favorable place.

Symptoms of thrush

Fungus in the genitals is harmless, but can be quite troublesome. The predominant symptom of a fungal infection is itching which can sometimes be very intense. Burning, feeling of dryness, reddened mucous membranes and irritation of the abdomen are also present. Sometimes an increased discharge can also be seen which is white with a cottage cheese-like consistency and free from odor. Other symptoms can be that it stings when you urinate and often hurts during intercourse. Sometimes eczema occurs on the labia and groin.

Things to keep in mind when you have a yeast infection

Avoid sex during the infection. Partly because it can cause pain that can become recurrent, but also because the risk of suffering from sexually transmitted diseases increases. This is because you have small cracks in the mucous membranes that make infections easier to transmit.

What can be the cause of genital fungal infection?

• Antibiotics
• Impaired immune system due to illness or stress
• Hormone changes
• Repeated rubbing against the genitals such as cycling or a lot of sex.