Vaginal thrush--which is more commonly referred to as a vaginal yeast infection--is a fungal infection caused by the overgrowth of Candida, a fungus that is normally present within the human body. If the level of acid within the vagina changes or if hormonal alterations occur, Candida may be stimulated to grow and multiply. Approximately 75 percent of adult women in the United States will experience vaginal thrush symptoms at some point, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Vaginal Discharge
If you have a vaginal thrush infection, you may develop abnormal vaginal discharge. In some women, vaginal discharge may become thick and whitish in appearance. Typically, this vaginal discharge is either odorless or has a yeasty smell associated with it. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services explains that women with vaginal thrush infections may develop vaginal discharge that looks like cottage cheese. If you experience abnormal vaginal discharge, speak with your gynecologist because such symptoms may also be indicative of a bacterial infection or sexually transmitted disease (STD).
Vaginal Irritation
A vaginal thrush infection can cause significant irritation of the vagina or vulva. Severe itching of the vagina or vulva is commonly experienced by women with this type of infection. The development of a vaginal rash may also occur as a result of this infection. The vaginal rash may be associated with additional symptoms, such as burning, swelling, soreness or swelling of the vagina or vulva. If you experience uncomfortable vaginal irritation, seek additional medical care from your gynecologist.
Urinary Pain
A woman with a vaginal thrush infection may experience urinary pain as a result of this condition. If you scratch your vaginal region to alleviate the itchiness or irritation caused by infection, you may injure the sensitive vaginal skin. This may cause certain women to experience a painful burning sensation while urinating. Swelling and irritation of the vagina can also lead to uncomfortable urination in some women. If you develop pain during urination, do not hesitate to speak with your gynecologist because such symptoms may also be indicative of a urinary tract infection or STD.
Pain During Intercourse
Some women who develop a vaginal thrush infection may experience pain during sexual intercourse. This likely occurs due to the vaginal irritation or swelling that occurs as a result of this infection, which can cause the vaginal skin to become very sensitive. Sexual intercourse can further irritate the vaginal skin and may lead to pain or discomfort in some women who have a vaginal thrush infection.
