Does vaginal thrush cause vulval pain?

Yeast-related inflammation can make the vulva feel sore, tender, raw or burning. Pain may become more noticeable with touch, sexual activity, tight clothing or when urine contacts irritated skin. It may occur with itching, redness, swelling, small cracks or thick white discharge.

Vulval pain has other possible explanations, including contact irritation, skin conditions, urinary problems and other infections. Severe pain, blisters, ulcers, a strong-smelling discharge or pelvic pain is not something to explain away as thrush. The Vulval Pain symptom guide can help you prepare a clear description for a clinician.

Avoid perfumed products, douching, shaving over sore skin and friction until the area settles. Wash gently with water, pat dry, and choose loose clothing. Pause sexual activity if it hurts; pain is a reason to stop, not to push through.

If symptoms are new, intense or returning, arrange an examination. A clinician can look for inflammation or skin changes and may test a swab. The right treatment depends on the cause, and an antifungal is useful only when thrush is responsible.

Contact a clinician for pain that persists, worsens or interferes with urination, movement or sleep. Seek prompt care for sores, blisters, bleeding, fever, lower abdominal pain, marked swelling or feeling very unwell.

Could the pain be caused by thrush or irritated skin? Do I need a swab or examination? What should I avoid while the vulva heals, and when is it safe to resume sex?