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Vaginal Thrush: Diagnosis and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Dr Vafa Derakshan, MBBS, FRACGP · AHPRA MED0001663310 · Last reviewed: 23 September 2026
Vaginal thrush is caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a yeast. Candida often lives in the vagina without causing any problems, and it only needs treatment when it causes symptoms.
Symptoms
Thick, white, clumpy discharge, itching, burning or soreness.
How it's diagnosed
Thrush is usually diagnosed from your symptoms. If it keeps coming back or doesn't clear up, your doctor may send a pathology request for a swab.
Treatment online
Thrush is treated with an antifungal cream or pessary used in the vagina, or a single antifungal tablet. Your doctor can send an eScript to your phone.
Pregnancy
If you're pregnant, oral antifungal tablets can't be used. Your doctor will prescribe a cream for at least 7 days instead.
Thrush that keeps coming back
If you have 4 or more episodes in 12 months, that's recurrent thrush. It needs a swab to confirm and a longer course of treatment, so talk to your doctor.
Partners
Partners don't usually need treatment.
When to follow up
If your symptoms don't settle after treatment, book a follow-up. Something else, such as BV or an STI, may be the cause, and your doctor may recommend STI testing.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get thrush treatment online?
Yes. Your doctor can assess you by phone or video and send an eScript for a cream, pessary or tablet.
Can I treat thrush while pregnant?
Yes, but not with tablets. In pregnancy, thrush is treated with a vaginal cream for at least 7 days.
Does my partner need treatment?
Partners don't usually need treatment for thrush.
What if my thrush keeps coming back?
4 or more episodes in 12 months is recurrent thrush. Your doctor can arrange a swab and a longer treatment plan.
Sources: ASHM Australian STI Management Guidelines: Candidiasis.
