At a glance
- For adult women with typical symptoms of vaginal thrush.
- A nurse or midwife can independently prescribe vaginal medicines only.
- Pregnancy, recurring infections and unusual discharge mean you need to see a doctor.
Typical symptoms
- itching and burning of the vagina and vulva,
- thick, white discharge,
- redness and swelling of the intimate area,
- burning when you pee or pain during sex.
Similar symptoms can have other causes too – for example bacterial vaginosis or cystitis. That's why the form asks for details, and if there is any doubt the nurse will recommend an examination by a doctor.
What the nurse can do
The Minister of Health's list allows nurses and midwives to independently prescribe antifungal medicines containing clotrimazole, nystatin or natamycin – in vaginal form only.
Whether you need a medicine is decided by the person carrying out your consultation. If your symptoms don't fit thrush, or need a gynaecological examination, you'll be advised to see a doctor instead of receiving a prescription.
How it works
You fill in a form
You describe your symptoms and answer questions about your health, the medicines you take and your medical history. It takes a few minutes.
A nurse assesses your request
A nurse or midwife reads your answers and, if anything is missing, asks follow-up questions. It is the nurse or midwife who decides whether a prescription is appropriate.
You get an e-prescription or a clear answer
If a medicine is appropriate, you receive an e-prescription code that you can use at any pharmacy. If not, you'll find out why and what to do next.
When you need to see a doctor
Book an appointment with a doctor instead of an online consultation if:
- you are pregnant or might be pregnant,
- you are under 18,
- your infections keep coming back – this is another episode within a short time,
- you have a fever or pain in your lower abdomen,
- your discharge smells unpleasant, is bloodstained or is an unusual colour,
- you think you might have a sexually transmitted infection,
- your symptoms didn't clear up after earlier treatment,
- you have diabetes or a weakened immune system.
In an emergency – severe pain, shortness of breath, confusion or loss of consciousness, rapidly worsening symptoms – call 112 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department (SOR). An online consultation is not an emergency service.
Frequently asked questions
Can a nurse issue a prescription for vaginal thrush?
Yes – for vaginal medicines containing substances on the Minister of Health's list. A nurse cannot independently prescribe oral medicines.
Do I have to show the affected area on camera?
No. The consultation is based on the answers you give in the form. If an examination is needed to make a safe decision, the nurse will refer you to a doctor.
The infection has come back yet again. Can I use the service?
Recurring infections need to be investigated by a doctor, so in that situation we recommend an in-person appointment.
Will I definitely get a prescription?
There's no guarantee. A prescription is issued only when the medicine is appropriate and safe.
The content on this page is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice.
