Thrush, also known as candidiasis, is a common fungal infection caused by the overgrowth of the Candida species, most often Candida albicans. It typically affects the vaginal area but can also appear in other moist parts of the body, such as the mouth and throat.
Most cases of thrush clear up quickly with antifungal treatment. However, for some people, it can recur frequently, causing discomfort and frustration. At Global Health, we take a holistic approach to help clients not only manage thrush but also uncover the root causes and support long-term prevention.
Symptoms of Thrush
Vaginal Thrush
- Itching, burning, and irritation of the vulva
- Redness and swelling
- Thick, white discharge resembling cottage cheese
- Pain during sex
- Burning sensation when urinating
Oral Thrush
- White patches on the tongue, cheeks, or roof of the mouth
- Redness and soreness in the mouth and throat
- Cracking at the corners of the mouth
Because these symptoms can overlap with other infections, it’s important to confirm diagnosis with a healthcare professional if you are unsure.
Risk Factors
Thrush develops when the balance of bacteria and yeast in the body is disrupted. Common triggers include:
- Antibiotics – disrupt gut and vaginal microbiome
- Hormonal changes – pregnancy, contraceptives, or HRT
- Diabetes – high blood sugar encourages yeast growth
- Weakened immunity – from illness, medication, or stress
- Lifestyle factors – tight clothing, poor diet, or use of perfumed products
If you experience four or more infections per year, this is known as recurrent thrush and suggests a deeper underlying imbalance that requires more than temporary relief.
Conventional Treatments
Thrush can often be treated with:
- Antifungal creams or pessaries (clotrimazole, miconazole)
- Oral antifungal medications (such as fluconazole)
- Hygiene practices – avoiding perfumed soaps, wearing cotton underwear, and keeping the area dry
While these treatments help symptoms, they don’t always address the root causes, especially in recurrent cases.
How Global Health Can Help
At Global Health, we focus on restoring balance in the body to both treat and prevent thrush naturally. Our integrative approach combines advanced therapies, holistic assessments, and lifestyle support.
Advanced Assessments
- Epigenetic Hair Analysis – provides insight into nutrient deficiencies, toxin overload, immune function, and metabolic factors that may contribute to recurrent thrush.
Restorative Therapies
- Ozone Therapy (HOCATT Ozone Sauna) – supports immune function, detoxification, and creates an environment less favourable for fungal overgrowth.
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) – enhances oxygen delivery to tissues, speeds up healing, and reduces inflammation.
Gut & Immune Support
- Probiotics & Prebiotics – help restore a healthy microbiome in the gut and vagina, reducing Candida overgrowth.
- Nutritional Guidance – personalised diet strategies to reduce sugar and yeast-promoting foods, and strengthen immune resilience.
Holistic Coaching
- Lifestyle Support – guidance on stress reduction, sleep, exercise, and daily habits that promote a balanced internal environment.
- Immune & Hormonal Support – to reduce underlying risk factors and strengthen your body’s natural defences.
When to Seek Help
See a healthcare professional if you:
- Have thrush symptoms that don’t improve with over-the-counter treatment
- Experience frequent infections (more than twice in 6 months)
- Have diabetes, a weakened immune system, or other complicating factors
Final Thoughts
Thrush is common, but when it becomes recurrent, it’s often a sign that your body needs deeper care. Instead of only managing symptoms, our team at Global Health helps you uncover and address the root causes—whether they are immune, hormonal, dietary, or microbiome-related.
If you are experiencing recurrent thrush, book a consultation with Global Health today. With advanced therapies like Ozone, Hair Analysis, and Probiotic Support, we’ll help you restore balance, strengthen your immunity, and prevent future recurrences.