Reviewed by Julie Boora, Superintendent Pharmacist & Clinical Director, TribElle Health Ltd (GPhC Reg. 9012688)
Thrush treatment · Choosing a product
Capsule, cream or pessary: three questions and you'll know which one to buy.
Thrush is common, uncomfortable and easily treated, but standing in front of a shelf of Canesten boxes, it isn't always obvious which one you need. They all contain effective antifungal medicine; the difference is only where the medicine goes and how you'd rather take it.
This guide narrows it down in under a minute, using only the treatments we stock at TribElle.
1 · Are you confident this is thrush?
2 · Where are your symptoms?
3 · How would you prefer to treat it?
Answer the three questions above to see your match.
Capsule or cream: which works better? Clinically, they are comparable. The capsule is discreet, easy to swallow and convenient. the cream and pessary put the medicine exactly where the infection is, and tend to ease itching sooner.
These don't treat the infection, but they make the days around it more comfortable.
Canesfresh Soothing Gel Wash 200ml · £12.00
A pH-balanced daily wash for when ordinary soap stings.
Canescool Soothing Cream Gel 15g · £6.99
Instant cooling relief from external itching while treatment works.
Vagisil Daily Soothe & Protect Oatmeal Cream 30g · £8.99
A protective oatmeal barrier cream for skin that's dry or irritated.
Canetest Self-Test · £12.00
Tells thrush and bacterial vaginosis apart before you treat.
Over-the-counter thrush treatment isn't right for everyone. Ask us first if:
Cure rates are broadly similar. The single capsule is more convenient; local treatment often calms itching a little faster. Neither is clinically superior for straightforward thrush.
Only if you have external itching or soreness. Combi packs include it, which is why they suit most women with both internal and external symptoms.
Most women notice an improvement in itching within 24 to 48 hours, with symptoms settling over about three days. See a pharmacist if nothing has changed after a week.
Use a self-test first. Bacterial vaginosis causes similar irritation but needs different treatment, and antifungals won't help it.
Speak to your pharmacist, midwife or GP first before using any treatments.
All of these are available over the counter at TribElle, delivered discreetly to your door.
© TribElle Health Ltd · GPhC Registration 9012688 · tribelle.co.uk · This content is for informational purposes only. Always read the patient information leaflet and consult a qualified healthcare professional.