Thrush or candidiasis is a common condition caused by a type of yeast called Candida. It mainly affects the vagina, though may affect the penis too, and can be irritating and painful. Many types of yeast and bacteria naturally live in the vagina and rarely cause problems. Candida is a yeast-like fungus that lives in warm, moist places such as the mouth, bowel, vagina and the foreskin of the penis. Thrush is caused when there is an overgrowth of Candida. Normally your body and vaginal bacteria stop the overgrowth of Candida.
It's not a sexually transmitted infection but can sometimes develop after you've had sex. It can develop in the vagina and on the genitals. It's a very common cause of unusual vaginal discharge — 3 out of 4 people with a vagina will have thrush at some point. Thrush is usually caused by a yeast fungus called candida albicans. Occasionally, however, signs and symptoms can develop.
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Vaginal thrush is a yeast infection that can make you feel sore and itchy around your vagina. Vaginal thrush is common — about three-quarters of women will have it at some point in their lives. You might not have any symptoms of thrush, and not realise you have it, but if you do get symptoms, they may include:.