Millions of UK women have thrush or BV right now — this is why

The heatwave is bringing yet another burden for women: thrush (Picture: Getty Images) If you’ve ever experienced that dreaded itchy feeling in your knickers, you’ll know just how uncomfortable thrush is. You’ll no doubt have also gone down various internet rabbit holes, seeking treatment and wondering just when your vulva will stop feeling as though it’s on fire. It’s the last thing you want in sweltering temperatures — but it turns out this yeast infection, as well as the equally-irritating bacterial vaginosis (BV), is especially prevalent over summer. Yes, it might only be the second week of July, but since May, we’ve already had three heatwaves, with the record recently broken for the hottest June ever, peaking at 37°C in East Anglia. And warm weather, along with how our habits change over the season, can massively disrupt the balance down below. Ask Metro Use AI to go deeper into the stories you care about – powered by Metro and trusted publications. So although statistics show up to 50% of women will be impacted by BV at some point in their life, and 1.2 million in the UK have thrush at any given time, the number of people suffering from symptoms at the moment is likely far higher. Why are thrush and BV more common in the summer? As Superdrug Online Doctor’s Dr Babak Ashrafi explains, many women notice issues cropping up as soon as it gets toasty outside. And there are a few reasons this might happen. He tells Metro. ‘Warm, humid conditions, increased sweating, spending longer in damp swimwear or gym clothing, and changes to our daily routines can all create an environment that makes vaginal infections more likely.’ The pH balance of a vagina is particularly sensitive (Picture: Getty Images) It’s all down to an overgrowth of the naturally occurring yeast that causes thrush: Candida. ‘Heat and moisture can encourage this yeast to multiply, particularly if tight or non-breathable clothing traps sweat against the skin,’ explains Dr Ashrafi. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is slightly different, as it’s brought on when there’s an imbalance in the regular bacteria living inside the vagina, rather than by a fungus. However, the aforementioned lifestyle changes that take place during the summer can also disrupt this delicate ecosystem. ‘While enjoying sugary cocktails, barbecues or holidays won’t directly cause thrush or BV, diets higher in sugar, increased alcohol intake and dehydration may contribute to changes in the body’s natural balance, especially alongside the effects of heat,’ says Dr Ashrafi. Symptoms of BV and thrush According to the NHS, symptoms of thrush in women include: White discharge Itching and irritation around the vulva and vagina Soreness or stinging either during sex or when weeing. It’s also possible to contract thrush in other areas of the skin, including the armpits, groin, and between the fingers. Sometimes, thrush doesn’t come with any symptoms at all. It also lists the following symptoms of thrush in men: Irritation and redness around the head of the penis and under the foreskin White discharge An unpleasant smell Difficulty pulling back the foreskin. When it comes to BV, however, these are the most common signs to look out for: Vaginal discharge that’s accompanied by a strong, fishy smell, particularly after sex Changes in the colour and consistency of your discharge, which might become a greyish-white, thin, or watery. Half of women with BV don’t show any symptoms, and importantly, it doesn’t typically cause any soreness or itching. It’s not just women, either. Men can also experience an uptick in fungal infections during this period, particularly in areas which tend to get particularly warm or sweaty. Gorgeous, we know. The GP explains: ‘Although thrush isn’t considered a sexually transmitted infection, it can occasionally be passed between sexual partners. ‘Men may experience symptoms such as itching, redness or irritation of the penis, particularly if they’re uncircumcised. ‘If either partner develops symptoms, it’s sensible to seek medical advice before continuing sexual activity.’ How to prevent heatwave-related irritation Outside of when you’re actively experiencing symptoms, Lovehoney sexual health expert and senior sexual health nurse Sarah Mulindwa reassures us that hot weather doesn’t mean that couples need to avoid sex altogether. However, she advises: ‘It’s sensible to take a few precautions, such as showering before or after sex if you’ve been sweating heavily, using plenty of lubricant if needed, avoiding harsh soaps around the genitals, and practising safer sex by using condoms with new or casual partners. ‘These can all help reduce irritation and the risk of STIs.’ The symptoms of thrush and BV are different (Picture: Getty Images) Dr Afrah Khattak also suggests changing out of wet swimwear as soon as possible, choosing breathable cotton underwear, and keeping your fluids up, particularly if you’ve been enjoying a few more beers than usual. ‘A pharmacist can help with over-the-counter treatment if symptoms do appear,’ she adds. ‘But if it keeps coming back or doesn’t clear up, it’s worth booking in with your GP or a gynaecologist rather than riding it out summer after summer. Deals of the Day Wuka launches the UK’s first period-proof swimwear for heavy flows Bridgerton fans are rushing to buy these new Netflix-inspired perfumes now £12 off The affordable summer wardrobe update you'll wear from rooftop drinks to beach holidays The £7.99 lip balm beauty fans love for glossy, hydrated lips just dropped four new shades This Keskine hydrogel mask could fix your summer skin ‘Recurring thrush or BV can sometimes point to something else worth investigating.’ Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@metro.co.uk Arrow MORE: I’m a nurse — these are the key signs of heatwave overhydration Arrow MORE: I had four periods in two months — I didn’t know it but I was fighting for my life Arrow MORE: It’s finally going to cool down this weekend – but not for long The Slice Your free newsletter guide to the best London has on offer, from drinks deals to restaurant reviews.