Experiences of recurrent vulvovaginal thrush in primary care: a qualitative study of patient and healthcare professional perspectives

Thesis

Vulvovaginal candidiasis, also known as thrush, is a common genital infection that causes itching, burning, and changes in vaginal discharge. While most cases are acute, transient, and easily resolved with over-the-counter medication, a subset of people experience thrush on a repeated basis. This condition is known as recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (or recurrent thrush). An estimated 1.2 million women in the UK annually experience recurrent thrush, with this number anticipated to rise.

This thesis takes a qualitative and feminist lens to analyse experiences of recurrent thrush and its management. I conducted interviews with 34 people with recurrent thrush and 25 healthcare professionals working in primary care and/or sexual health.

This study identified key challenges of living with recurrent thrush, navigating healthcare systems, and understanding diagnosis – all while negotiating multiple identities and health contexts. Findings from this study suggest that recurrent thrush is not merely a series of acute episodes, but a distinct experience requiring specific attention in research and practice.

To address a need for clear, sensitive, and practical information, I developed and published an online resource for the HEXI (Health Experience Insights) platform, incorporating patient narratives to support individuals living with recurrent thrush and their healthcare providers.

This thesis demonstrates the importance of recognising recurrent thrush as a complex, multidimensional health issue. By amplifying the voices of patients and healthcare workers, it provides a foundation for improved resources, practices, and understanding that can transform experiences of care and management.

Authors: Ford, T

• DOI: 10.5287/ora-yqarmyo9v
• Type of award: DPhil
• Level of award: Doctoral
• Awarding institution: University of Oxford
• Language: English
• Keywords: sexual health; recurrent vulvovaginal thrush; recurrent candidiasis; diagnosis; patient experience; qualitative; thrush; primary care; gender
• Subjects: Sociology; Gender; Primary health care; Qualitative research