Canesten Combi Pessary & Cream

When and how to use

The full course of treatment consists of a Canesten Pessary held inside a foil blister pack, an applicator for insertion of the pessary into the vagina and a tube of Canesten Cream.

The Pessary

The applicator should be used to insert the pessary into the vagina preferably before going to sleep at night for convenient and comfortable treatment.

Remove the applicator from the packaging. Pull out the plunger until it stops. Remove the pessary from the blister pack and place firmly into the applicator. To fit the pessary into the applicator, the holder of the applicator needs to be squeezed lightly at either side. The pessary fits tightly into the applicator and needs to be squeezed into the holder to about 1cm.

Carefully put the applicator as deep as is comfortable into the vagina (this is easiest when lying on your back with your knees bent up). Holding the applicator in place, slowly press the plunger until it stops so that the pessary is deposited into the vagina.

Remove the applicator. Dispose of the applicator in a safe place, out of the reach of children. The applicator cannot be flushed down the toilet.

Since the pessary dissolves in the vagina, it may be helpful to wear a panty liner because it is quite common to notice a slight white residue (chalky) after using the pessary. This does not mean that the treatment has not worked.

The Cream

For the treatment of the itching and soreness (vulvitis), the cream should be thinly and evenly applied to the area around the entrance of the vagina, 2 or 3 times a day and smoothed in gently. The cream should be used for at least two weeks.

To help prevent re-infection and so reduce the frequency of your attacks of thrush the cream can also be used to treat your sexual partner. The cream should be applied to the end of the penis 2 or 3 times daily (including underneath the foreskin).

The symptoms of thrush should disappear within three days of treatment. If no improvement is seen after seven days, you must tell your doctor.

The Canesten Pessary should be used in the vagina only. Your Canesten Cream is for external use only. Do not put the pessary or cream in your mouth or swallow them if the pessary or cream are swallowed accidentally, tell your doctor straight away or contact the Accident and Emergency Department of your nearest hospital.

If you have any question or would like more information call our Canesten Thrush Advice Line on 0845 758 5030 quoting CANO2

To apply, simply wash your hands before inserting the pessary using the applicator provided. For best results, apply the pessary at night before bed. To combat the external symptoms, use the Canesten cream 2-3 times a day for up to a week. If symptoms persist longer than this, consult your doctor for advice on alternative therapies and treatment.

This treatment isn't recommended for pregnant mothers, those who are breastfeeding, or those looking to conceive. If this is your first instance of thrush, consult a medical professional for clarification and the best course of treatment for your condition.