Within the Multi-Gyn product range there is Multi-Gyn active gel (formerly known as Bio-fem active gel) for Bacterial Vaginosis and there is Multi-Gyn Floraplus for thrush. Both of these gels can be purchased over the counter from pharmacies or online.

Within the Salcura Natural Skin Therapy range Topida intimate topical spray has found favour with a number of Chronic UTI sufferers for helping to alleviate the symptoms of Thrush

The Chronic Urinary Tract Infection Campaign (CUTIC) has secured an affiliate partnership with the manufacturers of Topida Intimate Spray. They are kindly offering a 15% discount on everything purchased directly from their website. Just add the code CUTIC15 to your order. Please note this is applicable to UK and Eire customers only.

Clotrimazole or Canestan cream

Canesten is the branded product and also contains more of the active ingredient at 2%, but is more expensive. Clotrimazole only contains 1%. These can be purchased at any pharmacy or on prescription from the GP. If you have vulval vaginal issues please check if any additives may cause irritation before usage.

There are also intra-vaginal pessaries such as clotrimazole or canesten pessaries, econazole and miconazole. These work in a similar way to the cream, but can cause burning, vaginal dryness and further irritation to some, again use with caution if you are very sensitive.

Nystatin cream and pessaries

Vaginal candida cases related to non-candida albicans species can be treated by Nystatin intra-vaginal pessaries or cream — Nystatin is the only licensed alternative to azole therapy.  Please note that in the UK at present it is unlicensed and would need to be purchased overseas.

The probiotic VSL3 can also be mixed with a small amount of water, just enough to make a paste and inserted in the vagina which can help to relieve and treat thrush.

Boric acid pessaries

Boric acid is a white, crystalline chemical substance that has anti-fungal and antiviral properties. It is used in various prescription pharmaceutical products and is also available without a prescription in some countries. Vaginal boric acid capsules are a treatment option for vaginal yeast infections, particularly infections that can’t be cured by anti-fungal yeast infection medicines. If you are pregnant, do not use vaginal boric acid treatment.

When used in capsules as a vaginal suppository, boric acid is known to sometimes cause skin irritation so again if vaginal or vulval tissues are sensitive please discuss with either a pharmacist or appropriate practitioner before purchasing for treatment. Be aware that if taken orally or used on an open wounds boric acid is toxic. Keep boric acid out of the reach of children.

How to apply topical medications

Apply a pea sized dose to those areas where the itching is most intense. Ensure that any application to the anal region is the last area treated to prevent any bacteria being transferred to the vulva and around the urethral entrance.