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Thrush in men and women

Thrush is a common yeast infection that affects men and women. It's usually harmless but it can be uncomfortable and keep coming back. It is not classed as a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

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Doctor

Antonio Cayatte

General medicine 44 years exp.

Dr Antonio Cayatte is a physician in General and Acute Medicine with over 30 years of experience across clinical care, medical research, and education. He offers online consultations for adults with a wide range of symptoms, both acute and chronic. His clinical background includes: 

  • assessment of sudden or unclear symptoms
  • ongoing care for chronic conditions
  • follow-up after hospital discharge
  • interpretation of test results
  • medical support while abroad

Dr Cayatte earned his degree from the University of Lisbon and taught internal medicine at Boston University School of Medicine. He holds active medical registrations in both Portugal and the UK and is a Fellow of the American Heart Association. Consultations are available in English and Portuguese. Patients value his clarity, professionalism, and balanced approach to evidence-based care.

Dr. Antonio Cayatte provides comprehensive care for a broad spectrum of common health concerns, including:

  • Respiratory & ENT: acute bronchitis, concerns related to pneumonia, sinusitis, tonsillitis, ear infections, sore throat conditions, and allergic rhinitis
  • Eye Health: allergic and infectious conjunctivitis, as well as red or irritated eyes
  • Digestive & Urinary: gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastritis, urinary tract infections, and cystitis
  • Chronic Conditions: hypertension, elevated cholesterol, and structured weight management planning
This page provides general information and does not replace a doctor’s consultation. If symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, seek medical advice promptly.

Thrush is a common yeast infection that affects men and women. It's usually harmless but it can be uncomfortable and keep coming back. It is not classed as a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

Symptoms of thrush

Thrush symptoms in women

Symptoms of thrush in women include:

  • white vaginal discharge (often like cottage cheese), which does not usually smell
  • itching and irritation around the vulva and vagina
  • soreness and stinging during sex or when you pee

Thrush symptoms in men

Symptoms of thrush in men include:

  • irritation, burning and redness around the head of the penis and under the foreskin
  • a white discharge (like cottage cheese)
  • an unpleasant smell
  • difficulty pulling back the foreskin

Thrush in other areas

Thrush can affect other areas of skin, such as the armpits, groin and between the fingers.

This usually causes a red, itchy or painful rash that scales over with white or yellow discharge. The rash may not be so obvious on darker skin.

Sometimes thrush causes no symptoms at all.

See what thrush looks like on the vagina, penis and skin

See a GP if:

  • you have symptoms of thrush for the first time
  • you have thrush and are under 16 or over 60
  • thrush keeps coming back (more than 4 times in 12 months)
  • treatment for thrush has not worked
  • you have thrush and are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • you have thrush and a weakened immune system – for example, because of diabetes, HIV or chemotherapy

You may also be able to get help from a sexual health clinic if you think you have thrush.

What happens at your appointment

The GP will want to confirm it's thrush and rule out other infections.

You'll be asked about your symptoms.

If it's not clear it's thrush or if you have thrush that keeps coming back:

  • a doctor or nurse may look at your vagina, penis or skin
  • a cotton bud may be wiped over the discharge to check what's causing your symptoms and to test for other infections

Thrush treatment

You'll usually need antifungal medicine to get rid of thrush. This can be a tablet you take, a tablet you insert into your vagina (pessary) or a cream to relieve the irritation.

Thrush should clear up within 7 to 14 days of starting treatment.

You do not need to treat partners unless they have symptoms.

Consult with a doctor about Thrush in men and women

Consult with a doctor about Thrush in men and women

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps with a doctor online.

Recurring thrush

You might need to take treatment for longer (up to 6 months) if you keep getting thrush (you get it more than 4 times in 12 months).

Before you begin treatment, a GP can help identify if something is causing your thrush, such as your period or sex.

They'll recommend how often you should use treatment.

Things you can do yourself to ease discomfort and prevent thrush returning

There are things you can do to ease thrush and stop it coming back.

Do

  • use water and an emollient (like E45 cream) instead of soap to wash the affected area

  • dry properly after washing

  • wear cotton underwear

  • avoid sex until thrush has cleared up if sex is uncomfortable

Don’t

  • do not use soaps or shower gels

  • do not use douches or deodorants on your vagina or penis

  • do not wear tight underwear or tights

Important

If you have sex during treatment, be aware that antifungal creams can damage condoms and diaphragms. This means your contraception might not work.

A pharmacist can help with thrush

You can buy antifungal medicine from pharmacies if you've had thrush diagnosed in the past and you know the symptoms.

A pharmacist can recommend the best treatment for you. Ask if they have a private area to talk if you're embarrassed.

You should not use antifungal medicine more than twice in 6 months without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor.

What causes thrush

Thrush is not classed as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but it can be triggered by sex or, less often, passed on during sex.

Thrush is caused by a fungus called candida that is normally harmless.

Thrush tends to grow in warm, moist conditions and develops if the balance of bacteria changes.

This can happen if:

  • your skin is irritated or damaged
  • you're taking antibiotics
  • you have poorly controlled diabetes
  • you have a weakened immune system (for example, because of HIV or chemotherapy)
  • you're having hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
  • you're pregnant

Online doctors for Thrush in men and women

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps for Thrush in men and women with a doctor online.

5.0 (86)
Doctor

Lina Travkina

Family medicine 13 years exp.

Dr. Lina Travkina is a licensed family and preventive medicine doctor based in Italy. She provides online consultations for adults and children, supporting patients across all stages of care – from acute symptom management to long-term health monitoring and prevention.

Areas of medical care include:

  • Respiratory conditions: colds, flu, acute and chronic bronchitis, mild to moderate pneumonia, bronchial asthma.
  • ENT and eye conditions: sinusitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, otitis, infectious and allergic conjunctivitis.
  • Digestive issues: gastritis, acid reflux (GERD), IBS, dyspepsia, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, functional bowel symptoms, intestinal infections.
  • Urological and infectious diseases: acute and recurrent cystitis, bladder and kidney infections, prevention of recurrent UTIs, asymptomatic bacteriuria.
  • Chronic conditions: hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, metabolic syndrome, thyroid disorders, excess weight.
  • Neurological and general symptoms: headache, migraine, dizziness, fatigue, sleep disturbances, reduced concentration, anxiety, asthenia.
  • Chronic pain support: back, neck, joint, and muscle pain, tension syndromes, pain associated with osteochondrosis and chronic conditions.

Additional care areas:

  • Preventive consultations and check-up planning.
  • Medical advice and follow-up consultations.
  • Test interpretation and diagnostic guidance.
  • Structured support for undiagnosed complaints.
  • Second opinion on diagnoses and treatment plans.
  • Nutritional and lifestyle support for vitamin deficiencies, anaemia, metabolic issues.
  • Post-operative recovery support and pain management.
  • Preconception counselling and postpartum support.
  • Immunity support and strategies to reduce frequency of infections.

Dr. Travkina combines evidence-based medicine with an attentive, personalised approach. Her consultations focus not only on treatment, but also on prevention, recovery, and long-term wellbeing.

If during the consultation it becomes clear that your case requires in-person assessment or specialised care outside of her scope, the session will be terminated and the payment fully refunded.

0.0 (18)
Doctor

Antonio Cayatte

General medicine 44 years exp.

Dr Antonio Cayatte is a physician in General and Acute Medicine with over 30 years of experience across clinical care, medical research, and education. He offers online consultations for adults with a wide range of symptoms, both acute and chronic. His clinical background includes: 

  • assessment of sudden or unclear symptoms
  • ongoing care for chronic conditions
  • follow-up after hospital discharge
  • interpretation of test results
  • medical support while abroad

Dr Cayatte earned his degree from the University of Lisbon and taught internal medicine at Boston University School of Medicine. He holds active medical registrations in both Portugal and the UK and is a Fellow of the American Heart Association. Consultations are available in English and Portuguese. Patients value his clarity, professionalism, and balanced approach to evidence-based care.

Dr. Antonio Cayatte provides comprehensive care for a broad spectrum of common health concerns, including:

  • Respiratory & ENT: acute bronchitis, concerns related to pneumonia, sinusitis, tonsillitis, ear infections, sore throat conditions, and allergic rhinitis
  • Eye Health: allergic and infectious conjunctivitis, as well as red or irritated eyes
  • Digestive & Urinary: gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastritis, urinary tract infections, and cystitis
  • Chronic Conditions: hypertension, elevated cholesterol, and structured weight management planning
5.0 (198)
Doctor

Taisiia Proida

Family medicine 7 years exp.

Taisiia Proida is a general practitioner with a specialization in mental health and a cognitive behavioral therapist (CBT), a member of the European Psychiatric Association. She offers online consultations for adults aged 18 and over, combining evidence-based medicine with an individualised approach to mental health care. She specialises in consultations and ongoing support for a wide range of mental health concerns, including: 

  • Mood disorders: depression, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression.
  • Anxiety disorders: generalised anxiety, OCD, panic attacks, phobias.
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex PTSD.
  • Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Assessment is provided only after an initial psychiatric evaluation and during a follow-up appointment.
  • Personality disorders and emotional instability.
  • Cyclothymia and mood fluctuations.
  • Schizophrenia spectrum and related conditions.

Dr. Proida combines clinical expertise with an empathetic approach, offering structured support based on evidence-based practices. Her work integrates CBT techniques with medical management, with a focus on anxiety and depressive disorders. She works with clients from different countries and cultural backgrounds, adapting her communication style and recommendations to individual needs. With experience in international clinical trials (Pfizer, Merck), she values clarity, trust, and collaborative partnership in patient care.

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Doctor

Alina Tsurkan

Family medicine 13 years exp.

Dr. Alina Tsurkan is a licensed family medicine physician based in Portugal, offering online consultations for adults and children. She provides professional primary care, with a focus on prevention, accurate diagnosis, and long-term management of acute and chronic conditions.

Dr. Tsurkan supports patients with a wide range of health issues, including:

  • Respiratory infections: cold, flu, bronchitis, pneumonia, and lingering coughs.
  • ENT conditions: sinusitis, tonsillitis, otitis (ear infections), sore throat, allergic rhinitis.
  • Eye conditions: allergic or infectious conjunctivitis, red eyes, irritation.
  • Digestive issues: acid reflux (GERD), gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, bloating, nausea.
  • Urinary and reproductive health: urinary tract infections (UTIs), cystitis, prevention of recurrent infections.
  • Chronic diseases: hypertension, elevated cholesterol, weight management.
  • Neurological complaints: headaches, migraines, sleep disturbances, fatigue, general weakness.
  • Children’s health: fever, infections, digestive issues, follow-ups, vaccination guidance.

She also provides:

  • IMT medical certificates for driving licence exchange in Portugal.
  • Personalised preventive care and wellness consultations.
  • Interpretation of test results and medical reports.
  • Follow-up care and medication review.
  • Support in managing multiple coexisting conditions.
  • Remote prescription management and medical documentation.

Dr. Tsurkan’s approach is evidence-based and holistic. She works closely with each patient to develop an individualised care plan that addresses both symptoms and root causes. Her goal is to empower patients to take control of their health and maintain well-being through lifestyle adjustments, routine check-ups, and early intervention.

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€55
5.0 (2)
Doctor

Alexander Nazarchuk

Allergology 7 years exp.

Dr. Alexander Nazarchuk is a physician specialising in allergology and internal medicine. He provides online consultations for adults, following the principles of evidence-based medicine — no outdated treatments or unnecessary tests, with clear explanations and a personalised approach. He helps patients with a wide range of allergic and therapeutic conditions, from common day-to-day complaints to complex cases involving allergies, gastrointestinal issues, cardiovascular concerns, respiratory symptoms, and more.

You can consult Dr. Nazarchuk for:

  • Test interpretation and guidance on diagnostic plans.
  • Allergic rhinitis, hay fever, bronchial asthma (including severe cases).
  • Food and drug allergies, skin rashes, angioedema.
  • Atopic dermatitis, urticaria, contact allergies.
  • Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) – initiation and ongoing management.
  • Abdominal pain, bloating, changes in bowel habits, nausea, heartburn.
  • High blood pressure and adjustment of baseline antihypertensive therapy.
  • Hyperlipidaemia and elevated cholesterol.
  • Cough, nasal congestion, fever, sore throat.
  • Anaemia, including iron deficiency and related conditions.
  • Other issues related to allergology and internal medicine.

During consultations, Dr. Nazarchuk takes a thorough, structured approach — analysing symptoms, identifying potential causes, and helping patients make informed decisions. Whether treatment, further investigation, or monitoring is needed, he explains each step clearly so you understand your health and how best to manage it.

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€66
5.0 (5)
Doctor

Tomasz Grzelewski

Dermatology 21 years exp.

Dr Tomasz Grzelewski is an MD, PhD specialist in allergy, paediatrics, general practice and sports medicine, with a clinical focus on dermatology, endocrinology, allergology and sports-related health. He has more than 20 years of clinical experience and completed his medical training at the Medical University of Łódź, where he defended his PhD thesis with distinction. His doctoral research was recognised by the Polish Society of Allergology for its innovative contribution to the field. Throughout his career, he has gained extensive expertise in diagnosing and managing a wide range of allergic and paediatric conditions, including modern allergen desensitisation techniques. For five years, Dr Grzelewski served as the Head of two paediatric departments in Poland, managing complex clinical cases and leading multidisciplinary teams. He also worked in medical centres in the United Kingdom, gaining experience across both primary care and specialist environments. With over a decade of telemedicine experience, he has provided online consultations across Europe and is valued for his clear, structured and evidence-based medical guidance. Dr Grzelewski is actively involved in clinical programmes focused on modern anti-allergic therapies. As a Principal Investigator, he leads research projects on sublingual and oral allergen desensitisation, supporting evidence-based progress in allergy treatment for both children and adults. In addition to his background in allergology and paediatrics, he completed dermatology studies through the Cambridge Education Group (Royal College of Physicians of Ireland) and a Clinical Endocrinology course at Harvard Medical School. This advanced training enhances his ability to manage skin manifestations of allergies, atopic conditions, urticaria, endocrine-related symptoms and complex immunological reactions. Patients commonly seek his care for: 

  • seasonal and perennial allergies
  • allergic rhinitis and chronic nasal symptoms
  • asthma and breathing difficulties
  • food and medication allergies
  • urticaria, atopic dermatitis and skin reactions
  • recurrent infections in children
  • sports-related health questions
  • general family medicine concerns

Dr Tomasz Grzelewski is known for his clear communication style, structured medical approach and ability to explain treatment options in a concise and accessible way. His multidisciplinary background across allergy, paediatrics, dermatology and endocrinology allows him to provide safe, up-to-date and comprehensive care for patients of all ages.

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€86
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