Yeast Infections & Men: Everything You Need to Know

For many of us, men do not come to mind when we think of “yeast infections,” but there is a connection. Here is everything you need to know about how yeast infections are associated with men.

Can men get yeast infections?

Men can get yeast infections, also known in men as balanitis thrush, candida balanitis, and penile yeast infection. Yeast infections in men are actually quite common because candida, the fungus that causes yeast infections, is usually present on the skin.

Yeast infections in men can then lead to balanitis, a condition characterized by the inflammation of the head of the penis, which is more common in uncircumcised men who still have foreskin, as well as the testicles.

You are more likely to develop balanitis from a yeast infection for these reasons as well:

• Being overweight
• Have diabetes
• Have an impaired immune system
• Practice poor hygiene
• Sensitive to perfumes, soaps, and chemicals
• Using antibiotics for prolonged periods
• Using steroids

Men can also get yeast infections as a result of the infection being transferred to the penis during sex. Sex with a partner who has a yeast infection can cause an overgrowth of the infection.

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Men can also get yeast infections in their mouths and other areas. Candida albicans is a common fungus. Accumulation or growth of infection can occur in areas of the skin, mouth and digestive tract.

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Symptoms of yeast infection in men

With male yeast infections, symptoms include the following:

• Burning or itching on the tip of the penis or foreskin
• Cracked skin
• Difficulty pulling back foreskin
• Difficulty urinating
• Difficulty getting or keeping an erection
• Discharge (reminds you of cottage cheese with a bread-like or unpleasant odor)
• A moist feeling on the tip of the penis
• Pain in the area around the penis
• Redness
• White discharge

The symptoms may persist for up to a week. With proper treatment, the yeast infections may take from one to seven days to clear up.

If symptoms exceed a week, get medical attention to ensure that it is not a more serious condition.

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Yeast infection treatment for men

Over-the-counter antifungal medications can usually treat most cases of male yeast infections.

Diflucan, for instance, can be taken by men for yeast infections, usually taking about eight days for the infection to clear up.

Home remedies for yeast infection in men

For natural remedies at home, garlic is one of the best treatments.

Eating a clove of garlic two or three times daily will help kill the yeast bacteria in the system.

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