Thrush

[Unregistered]

Hi

I would like to find out what is the cause of thrush (yellow mucous discharge). There is rarely itchiness etc but mainly this annoying discharge.
What is a natural cure for it?
Also will taking probiotics help maybe with balancing things?

[Dr Joy Saville]

Essentially Thrush is caused by overgrowth of a fungus Candida and presents with a thick white cottage cheese discharge. What you are experiencing may be bacterial vaginosis which is far more common in women. It is important for you to have an examination done to get a proper diagnosis and the treatment will largely depend on the cause of the discharge.

Probiotics are good for restoring the natural balance of bacteria in your private parts

A few simple guidelines for good health would be:
- wear white cotton underwear
- when using the bathroom wipe from front to back (so that you don't carry bacteria from the anus into your lady parts)
- do not use soap as this changes the pH and makes you more susceptible to infection
- wash with water after using the bathroom and after being intimate
- eat plain yogurt as this has added probiotics