Thrush treatment in Huntingdon.
Thrush is common, uncomfortable and nothing to be embarrassed about — and it's usually quick to sort out. Our pharmacist can work out which type you've got, recommend treatment that suits you, and tell you when it needs a GP.
What is thrush?
Thrush is a common fungal infection caused by a yeast called Candida. This yeast can normally live harmlessly on the body, but sometimes it grows excessively and causes symptoms.
Thrush can affect the vagina, penis, skin and mouth. It is usually treatable with antifungal medicines. Genital thrush is not classed as a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
No appointment needed — come in during opening hours and ask for the pharmacist.
Prefer a set time? Call and we'll book you in with the pharmacist.
Open Mon–Fri 08:45–18:00 (closed 13:00–14:00).
Common signs and symptoms
Symptoms depend on which part of the body is affected.
- Vaginal thrush: itching and irritation around the vagina, white discharge that usually does not smell, and soreness or stinging during sex or when passing urine
- Thrush affecting the penis: redness, irritation or burning around the head of the penis or under the foreskin; sometimes white discharge or difficulty pulling back the foreskin
- Oral thrush: white patches inside the mouth, a sore tongue or gums, an unpleasant taste, cracks at the corners of the mouth, or difficulty eating and drinking
- Skin thrush: a red, itchy or sore rash, often in warm, moist areas such as the groin or skin folds
Important: Some people have no symptoms. These signs can also have other causes, so it is important to seek advice if you are unsure.
What causes thrush?
Thrush develops when Candida grows more than usual. Factors that can contribute include:
Taking antibiotics.
Pregnancy or hormonal changes.
Diabetes, especially if blood sugar is not well controlled.
A weakened immune system or certain medical treatments.
Wearing dentures or using steroid inhalers, which can increase the risk of oral thrush.
Warm, moist skin or irritated skin.
Genital thrush can sometimes be triggered by sex, but it is not usually acquired through sexual contact.
How can it be prevented?
Thrush isn't always preventable, but these habits can lower the chance of it coming back.
Wash the affected area gently with water or a suitable emollient soap substitute.
Dry the area thoroughly and avoid perfumed soaps, shower gels, intimate deodorants and vaginal douches.
Wear breathable cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing if it causes irritation.
If you use a steroid inhaler, rinse your mouth after each use.
Clean dentures carefully and remove them at night.
If you have diabetes, keeping blood glucose under control may help reduce recurrences.
Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use and take antibiotics only as directed.
Some antifungal creams and vaginal treatments can damage latex condoms and diaphragms. Check the product leaflet and ask a pharmacist about precautions.
When should someone seek medical help?
Thrush is usually straightforward to treat, but some situations need a professional assessment first.
Seek prompt medical advice
Get advice if oral thrush makes swallowing painful or difficult, if a baby under 4 months has suspected oral thrush, or if symptoms have not improved after a week of treatment with an oral thrush gel.
Call 999 in an emergency
If you develop difficulty breathing or sudden swelling of the lips, tongue or throat after using a medicine, call 999.
See a GP or sexual health clinic
Ask for advice if:
- You have genital thrush symptoms for the first time
- You are under 16 or over 60 and have suspected genital thrush
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Symptoms do not improve after treatment or keep returning
- You have unusual or smelly discharge, sores, blisters, abnormal vaginal bleeding or lower abdominal pain
- You have a weakened immune system or difficulty controlling diabetes
Remember: Thrush is common and usually responds well to antifungal treatment. The correct treatment depends on where it occurs. Get advice if symptoms are new, unusual, persistent or recurrent.
NHS — Thrush in men and women NHS — Oral thrush NHS — Thrush during pregnancyCommon questions
Can a pharmacist help with thrush?
Yes. Our pharmacist can work out which type of thrush you're likely to have, recommend an antifungal treatment that suits you, and tell you when it needs a GP or sexual health clinic instead.
Is thrush an STI?
No. Genital thrush is not classed as a sexually transmitted infection. It can sometimes be triggered by sex, but it's not usually acquired through sexual contact.
Why does the treatment depend on where it is?
Because thrush on the skin, in the mouth and in the genital area are treated differently. We'll check which type you've got so you're given the right treatment rather than a general one.
Can I get treatment if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Tell us when you come in. We'll check what's suitable for you, and if a GP or midwife is the safer route we'll say so rather than simply selling you something.
Why does thrush keep coming back?
Recent antibiotics, pregnancy or hormonal changes, diabetes that's hard to control, a weakened immune system and warm or irritated skin can all contribute. If it keeps returning, get advice rather than treating it again and again.
Does thrush affect men?
Yes. It can cause redness, irritation or burning around the head of the penis or under the foreskin, sometimes with white discharge or difficulty pulling back the foreskin.
How much does it cost?
The consultation is free. If the pharmacist can treat you under the scheme, any NHS prescription charge that applies is the same as it would be at your GP — and free if you don't normally pay for prescriptions.
Do I need an appointment?
No — walk-ins are welcome during opening hours. If you'd rather have a set time, call us on 01480 425412 and we'll schedule one for you.
Is the consultation private?
Yes. Any consultation takes place in our private consultation room, and anything you discuss stays confidential.
Other minor ailments we can help with
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Walk in and ask for the pharmacist, or call us to arrange a time — free NHS advice and treatment under the Minor Ailments Scheme.