Thrush and Running: What Every Runner Should Know

Let’s Talk About Thrush

We’re here in The Femmi Group Chat to uncover and answer any and all questions, and this is one that is overdue to be answered!!

Let’s talk about thrush. We are going to get deep here.

What Is Thrush?

For those that have suffered from thrush, I am sure you will agree, it is an uncomfortable infection. It is caused by a type of yeast called candidiasis. Thrush generally impacts the vulval tissue as well as the vaginal area. It can cause a thick cottage cheese-like discharge or the main symptoms can be itch and discomfort (sorry for all those cottage cheese fans). Yeast infections thrive in a warm, moist environment, which means running can increase the risk of developing thrush. As oestrogen also increases yeast growth, thrush is more common in women with a menstrual cycle compared to women after menopause.

Common Triggers for Thrush

There are other factors that can increase the risk of developing thrush, including being on the oral contraceptive pill, taking certain antibiotics, and being pregnant. But when it comes to exercise, wearing tight underwear made of synthetic material or leaving wet swimmers or clothes on can also increase the risk of developing thrush.

Is Thrush an STI?

Thrush is not a sexually transmitted infection; rather, it is an overgrowth of normal yeast that lives on our skin and vulval tissue. Thrush can usually be treated by over-the-counter medications from the pharmacy, either a pessary or oral tablets, and a topical cream can also help manage symptoms of itch and redness.

When to See a Doctor for Thrush

If someone is having recurrent thrush infections, it is important to have this reviewed by a doctor as it could be an indicator of a problem with the immune system or diabetes or that the infection has become resistant to standard treatments. Furthermore, it might not be thrush at all and could be a different type of infection, such as bacterial vaginosis, a vulval skin issue, or another condition.

How Runners Can Prevent Thrush

So how can we prevent getting thrush as runners who are constantly wearing lycra and sweating? Wearing cotton underwear that is not too tight and getting out of wet clothing quickly can all decrease the risk of developing thrush. Thrush is definitely not something you should put up with as a runner, and there are multiple lifestyle measures and treatments to prevent this uncomfortable condition.