Thrush frustration
Question
I'm 20 and have a problem with recurring thrush, which is interfering with my sex life. I feel it's now creating a strain on my relationship with my girlfriend, but most of all it's knocked my self-confidence. I've tried using creams and tablets but nothing seems to have worked. I haven't seen a doctor yet as I feel too awkward discussing the problem.
Answer
Because your the symptoms you describe are persisting, it's important to seek medical advice as soon as possible to ensure you're properly diagnosed and treated. If the treatment you've tried for thrush hasn't been effective so far, it could be that you have a different infection which requires another form of treatment.
It may be worthwhile getting tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Bear in mind that STIs can be spread in different ways, not just through having sex. You can get tested for STIs at a genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic. GUM clinics are often located within hospitals, and are usually separate, discreet departments where you can receive a free and confidential service. You can also get tested at some Brook centres.
It's common to feel nervous at the thought of being tested for an infection, but it's important to remember that most infections are easily treatable. Delaying treatment could mean that an infection gets worse and other problems could occur as a result.
Often it can feel quite awkward and embarrassing when having to discuss your sexual health with a stranger, but rest assured that doctors and nurses are very used to seeing people every day for all kinds of problems. To help put your mind at ease when getting tested at a GUM clinic, it's likely that you'll speak to a health adviser beforehand who will discuss any concerns you have, and explain to you what the tests will involve.
If you want to discuss your situation further, or get extra advice and information about sexual health issues, you can call Brook's freephone helpline on 0800 0185 023.
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