Dear Aunt Silvia

My husband and I have been married for the last 23 years and have six children together. Of late I have been experiencing some thrush in my private parts. At my age I feel very embarrassed to go to see a doctor. I don’t know what exactly is happening, but could it be that my husband is going astray? I am afraid that I could be infected with a sexually transmitted disease.

Mariam

Dear Mariam,

Thrush infections usually appear in the mouth (oral thrush) or genitals as Candida albicans is often found in the vagina, women often get thrush. However, the infection sometimes develops in men who have foreskin or are uncircumcised because the warmth and moisture underneath it encourages the Candida fungus to grow and develop thrush.

Thrush is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI) because many people already have a small amount of Candida in their bodies. In fact, the infection is more common in men who are not sexually active.

It happens when a fungus called Candida albicans multiplies. Candida occurs naturally in the body, particularly in warm and moist areas, such as the mouth and genitals. Normally, it doesn’t cause any problems because it is kept under control by the immune system and other bacteria in the body. However, some factors can cause the fungus to multiply (grow), and lead to infection. 

Occasionally, thrush may be passed on during sex because the Candida fungus can be transferred from one partner to the other. The infection can also be made worse as a result of irritation to the genital area, which sometimes occurs during sexual intercourse. 

Many things can change the acidity of the vagina and boost your chances of a vaginal yeast infection. These include stress, lack of sleep, sickness, poor diet, or extreme intake of sugary foods, pregnancy or many other reasons.

As much as thrush is not something to fear, it is advised to seek medical attention because in some cases Sexually Transmitted Diseases can come as thrush. In the meantime, before you accuse your husband on having extramarital relationship(s), I advice you to seek medical attention if the situation is worrying, then you will know the source of the thrush.

Ends