Private Thrush Testing and Treatment

Thrush and BV are both common vaginal conditions, but they have different causes and require completely different treatments. Thrush is caused by a fungal overgrowth and typically produces a thick, white, odourless discharge, along with significant itching, soreness, and redness. BV is caused by a bacterial imbalance and tends to produce a thinner, grey or white discharge with a fishy smell, usually without significant soreness. A swab at our clinic will distinguish between the two and ensure you receive the correct treatment the first time.

Recurrent thrush, usually defined as four or more episodes in twelve months, is a recognised clinical condition. It may be linked to underlying factors such as poorly controlled diabetes, a weakened immune system, hormonal changes, antibiotic use or persistent Candida colonisation. A private consultation will investigate these factors thoroughly and guide a management plan designed to break the cycle of recurrence.

Yes. Male thrush is less common than female thrush, but it does occur. It typically presents as redness, irritation and soreness around the head of the penis, sometimes with a white discharge beneath the foreskin and difficulty retracting it. Men are more likely to develop thrush if their partner has thrush, if they have diabetes or a weakened immune system, or if they have taken a course of antibiotics recently.

Thrush itself does not directly damage the reproductive system or cause infertility. However, if recurrent thrush symptoms mask or delay the diagnosis of another underlying condition, there can be indirect effects. Always investigate recurrent thrush to rule out causes with broader health implications, including diabetes and immune conditions.

Thrush is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection, but Candida can be passed between partners during sexual contact. If you are experiencing recurrent thrush, your partner may benefit from assessment and treatment at the same time as you to prevent passing the infection back and forth. This applies to both male and female partners.

Basic thrush treatments are available over the counter. However, if you have symptoms for the first time, are pregnant, have recurrent thrush, or an over-the-counter treatment has not worked, seeing a private doctor is strongly advisable. A swab can confirm the diagnosis, identify the Candida strain, and rule out other causes, so you can start the right treatment from the start.

No. Thrush is caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a fungus naturally present in the body, rather than being caught from a partner like an STI. However, it can be passed between partners through sexual contact, and both partners may need to be treated at the same time to prevent reinfection. Because thrush symptoms can overlap with those of some STIs, proper testing is the only way to be certain of the cause.

Yes. No GP referral or letter is required. You can book a private thrush consultation directly online or by calling us. Same-day appointments are frequently available, and all care is completely confidential.