Thrush is a common infection that most women have some time in their lives and is not caused by a lack of personal hygiene. Thrush is caused by a yeast called Candida which may live harmlessly in the vagina without you even noticing it. However, the natural balance that keeps candida under control can be upset by many factors such as hormonal changes (menstruation, contraceptive pill, pregnancy, menopause), poor health, antibiotics, perfumed soaps, bath additives and tight clothing. If the level of yeast increases, it can develop into a thrush infection causing any of the following symptoms: persistent burning itching around the vagina and vulva, redness, swelling and soreness of the tissues of the vagina and vulva and a whitish, odourless discharge from the vagina. If this is the first time you have had these symptoms, talk to your doctor before using any treatment. Canesten Combi is a complete thrush treatment because it contains: A soothing cream to start relieving the itch immediately, a pessary for insertion into the vagina for treatment at the site of infection. The pessary also contains an ingredient that helps restore the vagina"s pH balance. Do not use this product if you have previously had an allergic reaction to the active ingredient, clotrimazole. See your doctor as soon as possible and do not use the pessary if you have any of the following symptoms: Irregular vaginal bleeding Abnormal vaginal bleeding or a blood-stained discharge ulcers, blisters or sores of the vagina or vulva, lower abdominal pain, pain or difficulty in passing urine, fever or chills, feeling sick or vomiting, diarrhoea, a foul smelling discharge from the vagina This is because Canesten Combi may not be the right treatment for you. If you are unsure whether you have thrush, check with your doctor before using this product. If you are pregnant or are trying for a baby, tell your doctor before using Canesten Combi.