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When will my thrush infection go away?
Thrush infection duration:
With the right treatment, a thrush infection should not last longer than 10-14 days.
If it goes on longer than this, it is a medical emergency as you could develop nerve damage and vestibulodynia.
Most Doctors are not taught this and do not understand the stakes – you need to see a vulva dermatologist.
If the clotrimazole fails and the infection does not clear in 10 days, it is advisable to treat the infection aggressively with oral fluconazole for 14 which is advised by America's CDC (see treating thrush).
Experts from the Vulval Pain Society generally avoid using pessaries back to back as they can inflame the vestibule skin and worsen existing nerve damage. To quote:
"Many vulval pain patients find topical anti-fungal creams and pessaries further inflame their pain, so always consider asking your doctor or pharmacist about oral anti-fungals available in the UK such as itraconazole (prescription only) or fluconazole (no prescription needed)." (Vulval Pain Society: If you suspect a funal infection)
You can try phoning 111 and ask for a gynaecologist to prescribe you a long-course oral itraconazole (a second-line azole drug) until you see a clinician in person. Some doctors might suggest a 500mg medical-grade boric acid pessary once a night for 14 nights until you can see a vulva consultant. Note for some women boric acid pessaries irritate their skin, if your symptoms worsen after boric acid use - discontinue and wait to see a vulval clinician (do not wait long!)