Periods 101
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Can tampons cause thrush?
Thrush on your period - is there a worse duo? Uncomfortable, inconvenient and downright annoying, having both thrush & your period at the same time is not an ideal situation. If you wear tampons and regularly experience thrush you may ask yourself “can tampons cause thrush?” Well, if you’re looking for the answer: you’re in the right place. Today, we’ll take a look into whether tampons can cause thrush…
Can tampons cause thrush?
Thrush isn’t caused by tampons (or any period care) the reason you may get thrush is due to an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida albicans when your body’s natural balance is disrupted.
So, no tampons don’t cause yeast infections (and they’re also safe to use when you have a yeast infection, but they may feel uncomfortable). If you wear a tampon for longer than recommended or use tampons that contact fragrances or other irritants you may have an increased risk of developing a vaginal infection like thrush or BV.
What can cause thrush?
Put simply, thrush is an infection caused by the fungus Candida albicans, which can affect the mouth, throat, and genitals. Candida is a type of yeast that is naturally present in the body and usually lives harmlessly in the mouth, gut and vagina but it can overgrow when the body’s natural balance is disrupted.
Common triggers of thrush include:
- Antibiotics use: antibiotics can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the body, allowing Candida albicans to overgrow.
- Hormonal changes: hormonal fluctuations, such as during pregnancy or menopause, can increase the risk of thrush.
- Immune system disorders: people with weakened immune systems, such HIV or cancer, have an increased risk of developing thrush.
- Diabetes: high levels of sugar in the blood can make it easier for Candida to grow.
- Using perfumed products, bubble baths or vaginal washing products.
- Smoking & alcohol consumption.
- Irritated or damaged skin.
- Underwear made from synthetic materials.
How to minimise the risk of thrush
We always recommend using organic cotton period care. Organic cotton is soft, breathable, hypoallergenic & won’t irritate your skin. Tampons & pads filled with bleach, plastic, fragrances & other chemicals can play havoc with your body’s natural balance and easily cause thrush to flare up. Read more about how organic period care can help prevent thrush.
Here’s a few more tips if you want to avoid thrush:
- Dry your vagina properly after washing.
- Avoid sex if it’s uncomfortable.
- Don’t use soap or shower gel on your vulva.
- Drink lots of fluid.
- Use organic cotton period care.
- Wear organic cotton underwear.
- Use sensitive or fragrance-free detergents to wash your underwear.
- Swap to showers instead of baths.
- Don’t use douches or deodorants on your vagina.
Got another question about thrush? Send it our way! Drop us a message customercare@wearemooncup.com
Blog disclaimer
Our blog is intended to share information and ideas around periods, health, and sustainability. While we do our best to keep content accurate and up to date, things can change over time. The information here is not intended as medical advice — for any health-related concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional. For more information on our claims, please see our Claims Page, and for the most up-to-date product information, please visit our Product Pages.
