Description
Overview
How does Canesten Internal Cream treat vaginal thrush? Canesten Thrush Internal Cream is a high-potency antifungal treatment designed to eradicate the yeast Candida albicans from the source of the infection. Unlike standard external creams that typically contain 1% or 2% clotrimazole, this specialised formulation delivers a concentrated 10% dose of the active ingredient. This high strength allows for a “one-dose” curative treatment, meaning a single application provides a sustained antifungal effect that continues to work over several days. By penetrating the mucosal lining of the vagina, the clotrimazole disrupts the fungal cell membranes, causing the yeast cells to perish and clearing the internal infection that drives the symptoms.
Why choose an internal cream over a pessary? While vaginal pessaries (tablets) are a common method for treating thrush, some women find them difficult to insert or uncomfortable due to vaginal dryness. Canesten Internal Cream offers a distinct advantage in these cases because the medication is suspended in a soothing, lubricating base. This makes insertion smoother and less abrasive for inflamed or sensitive tissue. Furthermore, as the cream disperses inside the body, it coats the vaginal walls more comprehensively than a dissolving tablet might, ensuring that the medication reaches every part of the infected area to prevent fungal regrowth.
What is the difference between this and the external cream? It is crucial to understand that Canesten Thrush Internal Cream is chemically different from the tubes of Canesten usually sold for external itching. The internal cream is five to ten times stronger and is specifically formulated for a single internal application to cure the infection. The lower strength external creams are intended only for soothing the itching on the vulva (the skin outside the vagina) and do not have the potency or the formulation required to treat the internal yeast overgrowth effectively on their own.
Who Is It For
Who is the ideal candidate for this treatment? This product is suitable for women between the ages of 16 and 60 who have been previously diagnosed with thrush by a doctor and recognise the symptoms. It is the preferred option for women who dislike swallowing oral capsules or those who find solid pessaries uncomfortable to use. It is also an excellent choice for women experiencing significant vaginal dryness alongside their infection, as the cream base provides immediate moisture and lubrication while delivering the medication.
Usage Instructions
How to use the pre-filled applicator? The treatment comes in a convenient, pre-filled applicator that contains the correct single dose (5g) of the cream. To use it, simply remove the cap from the tip of the applicator. Lie back in a comfortable position, preferably with your knees bent, and gently insert the applicator deep into the vagina as far as is comfortable. Slowly press the plunger all the way in to deposit the cream. Once empty, remove the applicator and dispose of it. This treatment is best applied at night before going to sleep, as this prevents gravity from causing the cream to leak out and ensures the medication remains in contact with the infection for the longest possible time.
Warnings
Safety precautions and impact on contraception The cream contains ingredients that can damage the latex used in condoms and diaphragms. This may reduce their effectiveness and increase the risk of pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections. Therefore, you should use alternative methods of contraception for at least five days after using this product. While generally safe, some users may experience mild local irritation or burning immediately after insertion. If you are pregnant, you should consult your doctor or midwife before using this product; while clotrimazole is often safe, extra care must be taken when inserting the applicator to avoid stimulating the cervix. Do not use this product during your period, as the menstrual flow will wash the medication away before it can work.
Alternatives
Other treatments for vaginal thrush If you prefer a different administration method or require a systemic treatment, common clinical alternatives include: Canesten Soft Gel Pessary: A softer, teardrop-shaped capsule that combines the ease of a pessary with a gel texture. Fluconazole 150mg Oral Capsule: A single-dose oral tablet that treats the infection systemically without the need for internal application. Canesten Thrush Combi: A dual-pack containing both an internal pessary for the infection and an external cream for the itching. Multi-Gyn FloraPlus: A prebiotic gel designed to treat thrush symptoms by supporting natural vaginal flora rather than using antifungals.
