GPhC Registered: 9012621
Canesten 2% Cream for Vaginal Thrush
Canesten 2% Cream for Vaginal Thrush
• Antifungal cream for external thrush symptoms
• Helps relieve itching, soreness and irritation
• Pharmacy medicine following online assessment
• Discreet, regulated service with delivery available
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Order before 3pm for next working day delivery (Mon-Fri).
Experienced UK-registered prescribers
Owned by qualified doctors
2-minute consultation
UK-wide express delivery
About the product
What is Canesten 2% Cream?
Canesten 2% cream contains clotrimazole, an antifungal medicine used to relieve the external symptoms of vaginal thrush caused by Candida. It is commonly used for symptoms such as itching, redness, burning and soreness affecting the vulval area.
As this is a Pharmacy medicine, a short consultation will be required before purchase to make sure it is appropriate for you.
How does Canesten 2% Cream work?
Clotrimazole stops Candida from making ergosterol, an essential part of the fungal cell membrane. This weakens the yeast and helps clear the infection, while also relieving external irritation and soreness.
What is Canesten 2% Cream used for on this page?
On this product page, Canesten 2% cream is used specifically for:
- External vulval symptoms of vaginal thrush such as itching, redness, burning and soreness
It is not used here for:
- Internal vaginal treatment on its own where internal symptoms need a pessary or internal cream
- Penile thrush on this page
- Recurrent thrush without further medical review
- Severe symptoms with fever, pelvic or abdominal pain
- Suspected bacterial vaginosis, trichomonas or other sexually transmitted infections
- Children
Canesten 2% cream should only be used if it is suitable for you.
Who may be suitable for Canesten 2% Cream?
You may be suitable if:
- Your symptoms are typical of vaginal thrush
- Your main symptoms are external itching, redness, burning or soreness
- You do not have red-flag symptoms suggesting another cause
- You are able to use a topical cream and follow the after-care advice
Points to consider before using it:
- Your symptom pattern and duration
- Previous episodes and how they responded to treatment
- Whether you may also need an internal treatment for vaginal symptoms
- Any medical history including diabetes or reduced immunity
- Other medicines or products you are using in the area
Who should not use Canesten 2% Cream or needs medical advice first?
Do not use without medical advice if you:
- Are over 60 with a first episode of symptoms
- Have abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic or abdominal pain, fever, smelly or green or yellow discharge, ulcers, blisters or pain during sex
- Have four or more episodes in a year, uncontrolled diabetes or a weakened immune system
- Are allergic to clotrimazole or other azole antifungals
- Have symptoms that are not clearly due to uncomplicated vaginal thrush
Use with caution and seek pharmacist or medical advice if you:
- Have symptoms suggesting another infection such as bacterial vaginosis
- Are using other vaginal or vulval treatments
- Have not had thrush before and are unsure of the cause
How do I use Canesten 2% Cream?
Follow the directions supplied with the product unless a healthcare professional has advised otherwise. A typical way to use it is:
- Apply a thin layer to the affected external vulval area two or three times a day
Practical advice:
- Wash and dry your hands before and after use
- Apply gently to the affected external area
- Continue for the recommended number of days or as advised on the pack
- If you also have internal vaginal symptoms, you may need an internal treatment as well
General self-care advice
- Keep the genital area cool and dry
- Avoid tight or synthetic underwear where possible
- Avoid perfumed soaps, bubble baths or vaginal washes
- Avoid sex until symptoms settle if possible
- Topical imidazole products can damage latex condoms and diaphragms, so alternative precautions may be needed during treatment and for a few days afterwards
- If symptoms are more suggestive of bacterial vaginosis, such as a fishy odour or thin grey discharge, seek assessment because a different treatment is needed
Side effects and when to get help
Common side effects can include mild burning, irritation, itching or redness where the cream is applied. These are usually mild and short-lived.
Seek medical advice urgently if you develop severe irritation, rash, blistering, swelling of the face or tongue, difficulty breathing, or signs of a serious allergic reaction.
How it works
Online consultation
Fill out a simple online form with no GP or pharmacy visits.
Clinical review
A UK-registered pharmacist reviews your details to decide the best treatment option for you.
Receive your prescription
If prescribed, you can get express delivery in discreet packaging right to your doorstep.
Delivery Information
Royal Mail Tracked 24
1–2 working days
£3.99
Royal Mail Special Delivery
Guaranteed next working day delivery
£8.95
Discreet Packaging
All orders are sent in plain, unmarked packaging with no indication of the contents. Your privacy is our priority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Canesten 2% cream is mainly used for the external symptoms of vaginal thrush, such as itching, redness, burning and soreness around the vulva.
You might. If you have internal vaginal symptoms such as discharge or deeper discomfort, an internal treatment such as a pessary or internal cream may also be needed.
Many people notice relief within 24 to 48 hours, but it can take several days for symptoms to settle fully.
Topical clotrimazole can be used in pregnancy, but it is best to check first with your GP, especially if you are not sure which treatment is most suitable.
It is usually best to check with a doctor first if you are breastfeeding, especially if symptoms are new or you are unsure of the cause.
Yes, topical imidazole products may damage latex condoms and diaphragms. You may need to use alternative precautions during treatment and for a few days afterwards.
If symptoms return quickly, happen often, or do not improve, seek further advice. Recurrent thrush may need a different treatment plan or further investigation.
Seek urgent advice if you develop severe pain, fever, vomiting, vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, a smelly discharge, blisters or ulcers, or signs of an allergic reaction.
No. This information supports, but does not replace, advice from a pharmacist, GP or another qualified healthcare professional. Always follow the directions supplied with your medicine.
Regulated and Safe
General Pharmaceutical Council
My Chemist Plus is registered and regulated by the GPhC, who are the official body that regulates and inspects all pharmacies in the UK. They are responsible to ensure we provide the highest standards in care.
LegitScript certification
My Chemist Plus is certified by Legit Script, who monitors online pharmacies to evaluate compliance, adherence and licensing to regulation.