Your Private GP and Sexual Health Clinic in Canary Wharf

Thrush, Bacterial Vaginosis and Balanitis

Dr Wayne Cottrell:

THRUSH

Thrush is an fungal infection usually caused by Candida Albicans. Candida naturally occurs in the vagina but if the acidity in the vagina changes. It can result in an overgrowth of candida, which then in turn can lead to symptoms.

Although it is more common in women, men can also develop thrush on the penis, more commonly in uncircumcised men. Thrush can be passed on through sexual intercourse, but it is not classed as a Sexually transmitted infection. It can also be normal or passed on via skin-to-skin contact.

Many women will suffer with thrush at some point in their lives, with about 5% of those that will suffer with recurrent episodes. It is important to note that having thrush doesn’t necessarily mean that there is a problem with your immune system, although in recurrent or difficult to treat episodes, we would recommend testing for HIV and diabetes, just to be on the safe side.

RISK FACTORS

  • Recent antibiotic use
  • Oral contraceptives
  • Sexual activity

SYMPTOMS

Women

  • Vaginal irritation, itching or soreness of vagina
  • A thick white discharge
  • Painful urination

Men

  • A red patch or spots on the head of the penis
  • Itching
  • Excessive smegma (the white stuff under the foreskin)

BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS (BV)

BV is the commonest cause of abnormal vaginal discharge in women of childbearing age. It is not necessarily a sexually transmitted infection. It is caused by an overgrowth of organisms such as Gardnerella vaginalis and Mycoplasma hominis in the vagina, which causes an imbalance in the vaginal flora.

Although not a serious condition, it can cause unpleasant symptoms, and may increase the risk of picking up other STI’s including HIV. These vaginal bacteria are the first line of defence, when it comes to warding off unwanted viruses and other bacteria.

Besides any disturbances which can lead to symptoms and potentially increased risk of other infections. Furthermore, some women have frequent BV and it is also more common in some ethnic groups, women who use IUD’s for contraception and also in smokers. Although not classed as a sexually transmitted infection, it is more common in sexually active females.

BALANITIS

Balanitis is an infection of the foreskin, caused by bacterial or fungal infection. Symptoms can include a red, itchy penile head or foreskin with or without swelling of the foreskin. In some cases it can result in difficulty in retracting the foreskin. It can also cause a discharge, usually with a strong odour.

If you are concerned about or just want advice on STI’s, please call: 0203 197 9100 or contact us via email at: contact@drwaynecottrell.com

For more information or to book an appointment call our clinic on the number below: 

0203 197 9100BOOK APPOINTMENT

Dr Wayne Cottrell will be back in the clinic from 18 October and the clinic will be open every weekday from that date

Canada Place Shopping Mall
34 North Colonnade
Canary Wharf
London
E14 5HX

0203 197 9100

Monday: 08:00-18:30
Tuesday: 08:00-18:30
Wednesday: 09:00-17:00
Thursday: 09:00-17:00
Friday: 09:00-17:00