Can I have a smear test if I have thrush?

First things first: what is thrush?

Thrush is a common yeast infection that affects both men and women. It is typically caused by a fungus called candida albicans, which is usually harmless. This fungus grows as part of the vagina’s natural flora. However, sometimes the balance of bacteria in the vagina can become unbalanced, causing an infection. Even though thrush is not recognised as an STI, symptoms can be similar to that of a sexually transmitted infection.

Symptoms of thrush can include:

• White discharge from the vagina or on the skin of the penis (resembling cottage cheese)
• Genital discomfort typically itching and redness. Less typical is burning when urinating
• An unpleasant odour
• Soreness during sex (especially for women when the infection is vaginal or on the outside skin).

Treatment for thrush often consists of antifungal medicine and creams that can help relieve irritation. Thrush can clear up within a week with appropriate medication. When it has gone back to normal, the fungus has gone back into its “silent” state, just colonising you, not infecting you.

A PAP smear, also known as a PAP test, is a cervical screening method used to detect potentially precancerous and cancerous cells in the cervix.

At many Better2Know clinics, confidential HPV and smear tests are provided to give you the comfort and peace of mind you need. The test involves gently removing cells from the surface of the cervix and the area around it using a small brush. These cervical cells are then checked for cervical cancer or cell changes that may lead to cervical cancer.

If the results of an HPV test detect the presence of any high risk strain of the virus, further tests can be done to look at the cervix. A PAP smear test may also identify other conditions, such as inflammation or infections.

We understand that health issues like thrush can cause some concern. However, it’s important to note that having thrush does not necessarily prevent you from getting a PAP smear.

A PAP smear test involves sampling cells from your cervix, not the vagina, where thrush is typically present. Therefore, even if you have thrush, you can still go for a smear test.

However, if you are experiencing symptoms of thrush or are currently on medication for thrush, it’s advisable to inform your clinic before your PAP smear appointment.

This is particularly so if you are applying creams or pessaries.

Sometimes, it may be best to rearrange your PAP smear until after the infection has cleared. This is to ensure the most accurate results.

At Better2Know, we believe in empowering individuals with the knowledge to maintain their sexual health. You can take several steps to prevent thrush from recurring or ease symptoms:

• Avoid unnecessary antibiotics
• Wear cotton underwear
• Avoid sex until thrush has cleared
• Use a condom to prevent transmission to your partner
• Taking showers instead of baths
• Use water or emollient body washes to clean the vagina or penis but without excessive hygiene, or you will destroy your protective bacteria too
• Dry the area properly after washing

Even if you think you have thrush, it’s best not to put off a PAP smear for too long. PAP smear tests can help you get a clear view of your cervical health. In your country, there are national guidelines about how regularly you should be getting a smear test.

Click the button below to schedule a PAP smear and HPV test at a clinic near you. You can also secure an appointment by calling this number listed at the top of this page. A member of our Patient Services team can talk you through your situation and help you get the testing you will need.