Vulvodynia and yeast infection: what should you know?

Thrush may cause itching, soreness, redness, swelling, and a change in discharge. See [Vaginal Itching](/symptoms/vaginal-itching/), [Vaginal Discharge](/symptoms/vaginal-discharge/), or [Vulval Pain](/symptoms/vulval-pain/) for related symptoms. Vulvodynia describes vulval pain lasting or recurring without an obvious infection or skin condition; burning, stinging, rawness, or pain with touch may occur. A yeast infection can aggravate pain, but treating suspected thrush does not prove that it caused ongoing pain.

Arrange an examination if pain continues, keeps returning, or does not settle after appropriate antifungal care. A clinician may check the skin, take a swab, and consider other causes of irritation. Keep the area dry, avoid scented washes and perfumed products, choose loose cotton underwear, and pause activities that trigger pain. Do not repeatedly self-treat without confirming the cause; [Antifungal Treatment for Thrush](/treatments/medical-gynaecology/antifungal-treatment-for-thrush/) explains treatment options.

Seek prompt care for severe or rapidly worsening pain, fever, pelvic pain, sores or blisters, unusual bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, or difficulty passing urine. Arrange a routine review for pain that lasts beyond an apparent infection, returns frequently, or interferes with sex, sitting, sleep, or daily activities. Urgent assessment is also appropriate if symptoms begin during pregnancy or after a procedure.

Ask whether the symptoms fit thrush, vulvodynia, or another condition; whether a swab or skin examination is needed; which products and activities may be aggravating the area; and what follow-up plan applies if antifungal treatment does not help.