Why do you keep getting thrush, and what can you do about it?
You treated it, it cleared up, and now it's back again. If you keep getting thrush, you're not alone. Up to 5% of women experience recurring thrush, defined as four or more episodes in a single year.1,2 The good news is that recurrent thrush usually has an identifiable trigger, and once you know what's driving it, you can take steps to stop the cycle.
1. Antibiotics are disrupting your natural balance
Antibiotics are one of the most common triggers for thrush. They kill bacteria without distinguishing between harmful bacteria and the beneficial Lactobacillus species that keep Candida in check. When those protective bacteria are reduced, yeast can overgrow and cause symptoms.1,3
If you've noticed a pattern of thrush following a course of antibiotics, mention it to your GP. They may be able to suggest alternatives, or you could discuss using an antifungal like fluconazole alongside the antibiotic to prevent an episode.
2. Blood sugar levels aren't well controlled
Yeast thrives on sugar. When blood glucose levels are consistently elevated, whether from diabetes, prediabetes, or a high-sugar diet, it creates an environment where Candida can flourish. Studies have shown that women with poorly controlled diabetes are significantly more likely to experience recurrent thrush.1,3
If you keep getting thrush and haven't had your blood sugar checked recently, ask your GP for a test. Managing blood glucose can make a real difference to how often thrush returns.
3. Certain products are irritating the area
Perfumed soaps, shower gels, bubble baths, and scented intimate products can disrupt the vaginal pH and irritate delicate tissue. This makes it easier for Candida to take hold. Even some laundry detergents and fabric softeners can be a factor if you're particularly sensitive.1
Switching to an unperfumed soap or wash for the vulval area, wearing cotton underwear, and avoiding tight synthetic clothing can all help reduce irritation and break the cycle.
4. Your treatment isn't fully clearing the infection
Sometimes thrush seems to go away but hasn't fully resolved. A single dose of fluconazole clears most straightforward episodes,4 but if you're stopping topical treatments too early or the infection is more stubborn than usual, Candida can bounce back quickly. You can learn more about how fluconazole works in our guide to how fluconazole treats thrush.
For recurrent thrush, your GP may recommend a maintenance regimen, typically a dose of fluconazole every week for six months.5 If symptoms don't improve within seven days, or they return within two months, see your GP for a swab test to confirm the diagnosis.
5. Hormonal changes are shifting the balance
Oestrogen plays a role in how Candida behaves. Hormonal shifts during pregnancy, before your period, when starting or changing hormonal contraception, or during HRT can all create conditions that favour yeast overgrowth.1,3
You can't always avoid hormonal changes, but tracking when your symptoms appear can help you and your GP spot a pattern and consider alternatives if contraception seems to be a trigger.
How to help prevent recurring thrush
Beyond addressing the specific triggers above, a few practical habits can help. Avoid douching or using internal cleansers, change out of damp swimwear or gym clothes promptly, and if you're prescribed antibiotics, ask your pharmacist about a preventative antifungal. If you experience four or more episodes in a year, see your GP about a longer-term treatment plan.
You can browse thrush treatments at Pharmica, including fluconazole 150mg capsules. For oral thrush, Daktarin Oral Gel is also available to order online.
Breaking the cycle
If you've been wondering why you keep getting thrush, the answer is usually one of the triggers above. Recurring thrush is frustrating, but it's rarely a sign of anything serious. In most cases, identifying your personal triggers is enough to reduce how often it comes back. If over-the-counter treatment isn't keeping it at bay, your GP can investigate further and put a longer-term plan in place.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I keep getting thrush?
The most common reasons include antibiotic use, uncontrolled blood sugar, hormonal changes, irritating products, and incomplete treatment. If you're getting four or more episodes a year, see your GP for a swab and to discuss a longer-term management plan.
How many thrush episodes count as recurrent?
Recurrent thrush is generally defined as four or more confirmed episodes within 12 months. If you're experiencing this, your GP can arrange a swab and discuss a maintenance treatment plan.
Can men get recurring thrush?
Yes. While less common than in women, men can experience recurrent thrush, particularly with diabetes or a weakened immune system. Symptoms include redness, irritation, and discharge under the foreskin.
Should I take probiotics for recurring thrush?
There's growing evidence that probiotics can help when used alongside antifungal treatment. A 2024 meta-analysis of 35 clinical trials found that women who took probiotics alongside their antifungal medication had significantly lower recurrence rates than those using antifungals alone.6 Probiotics aren't a replacement for antifungal treatment, but they may be a useful addition if your thrush keeps returning.
Can thrush come back after fluconazole?
Yes. A single dose of fluconazole treats the current episode but doesn't prevent future ones. If thrush returns frequently, your GP may prescribe a maintenance course to keep it under control.
Does thrush go away on its own?
Mild episodes sometimes resolve without treatment, but this isn't reliable. Treating thrush promptly with an antifungal clears the infection faster and reduces discomfort.
References
- NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries. Candida – female genital. Last revised October 2023. Available at: https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/candida-female-genital/
- Denning DW, Kneale M, Sobel JD, Rautemaa-Richardson R. Global burden of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis: a systematic review. Lancet Infect Dis. 2018;18(11):e339–e347.
- Saxon C, Edwards A, Rautemaa-Richardson R, et al. British Association for Sexual Health and HIV national guideline for the management of vulvovaginal candidiasis (2019). Int J STD AIDS. 2020;31(12):1124–1144.
- Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). Fluconazole 150mg Capsules – Summary of Product Characteristics. Available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/4720/smpc
- Sobel JD, Wiesenfeld HC, Martens M, et al. Maintenance fluconazole therapy for recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. N Engl J Med. 2004;351(9):876–883.
- Abavisani M, Sahebi S, Dadgar F, et al. The role of probiotics as adjunct treatment in the prevention and management of gynaecological infections: an updated meta-analysis of 35 RCT studies. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol. 2024;63(3):357–368.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your medication and speak to a healthcare professional if you have specific concerns.
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