Vaginal thrush (vulvovaginal candidiasis)--called a vaginal yeast infection in the United States--is a type of infection caused by the overgrowth of a fungus called Candida albicans. This type of infection proves quite common--almost half of all women experience more than two vaginal thrush infections during their lives, explains the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Treatment with an over-the-counter or prescription antifungal medication can help resolve symptoms of vaginal thrush in most women.
Itching or Irritation
One of the characteristic signs of vaginal thrush is intense vaginal itching, explains DermNet NZ, a health information website established by the New Zealand Dermatological Society Incorporated. Vaginal itching can cause women to frequently scratch at their genital region, leading to further irritation and inflammation. Women will also notice a burning or uncomfortable sensation around their sensitive vaginal skin, which can worsen if this condition remains untreated.
Vaginal Discharge
If a woman has a vaginal thrush infection, she will notice the appearance of abnormal vaginal discharge within her undergarments or when she uses the bathroom. Vaginal discharge associated with thrush is typically thick, white and curd-like, reports Patient UK, a comprehensive patient health information website provided by general practitioners in the United Kingdom. The discharge is generally odorless, but certain women may notice a yeasty smell that resembles that of bread baking. Excessive vaginal discharge due to vaginal thrush can be embarrassing to some women, especially when engaging in sexual activities.
Painful Urination
Frequent scratching due to intense itching symptoms caused by vaginal thrush can damage the delicate skin around a woman's vagina. If this occurs, she may experience painful, burning sensations when she urinates, explains the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. If a woman experiences pain during urination, she should contact her doctor as such symptoms can be indicative of an alternate medical condition, such as a urinary or sexually-transmitted infection.
Vaginal Rash
Women who develop vaginal thrush can notice the appearance of a red rash along the vagina and vulva. This rash can spread across the genital region or down the inner thighs, explains DermNet NZ. A vaginal rash that occurs due to vaginal thrush can feel uncomfortable and may become itchy, irritated or painful. If a womans develops raised skin lesions in addition to a rash within her genital region, she should seek additional medical guidance as such symptoms may indicate that she has a sexually transmitted disease.
