When to worry about vaginal itching with vaginal thrush

Vaginal thrush is caused by an overgrowth of yeast. It can cause marked vulval itching, redness, soreness, swelling, burning, and a thick white discharge. The discharge may have little smell. Similar symptoms can occur with bacterial vaginosis, sexually transmitted infections, dermatitis, or other conditions, so a familiar feeling is not enough to confirm the cause.

Keep the area dry, wear breathable underwear, and avoid scented washes, douching, and tight clothing. Use only an antifungal treatment recommended for you, following its directions. Speak with a clinician before self-treating if this is your first episode, you are pregnant, symptoms are severe, or treatment has not helped. Repeated episodes deserve a review of possible triggers and alternative diagnoses.

Seek prompt advice for pelvic pain, fever, foul-smelling discharge, sores or blisters, unusual bleeding, painful urination, or symptoms that differ from previous thrush. Arrange review when symptoms persist after treatment or keep returning. Get urgent help for severe pain, heavy bleeding, fainting, or feeling very unwell.

Ask whether testing is needed, which treatment is suitable for your symptoms and pregnancy status, and what follow-up is needed if the itching does not settle.