What Is Male Yeast Infection?

Some people think only women get yeast infections, but men can experience a yeast infection as well. The well-known ‘jock itch’ is often a yeast infection.

So How Does A Guy Get A Male Yeast Infection?

What Are Risk Factors For Male Yeast Infection?

• Antibiotic Use: If a man is taking antibiotics for a long time, a man will have an increased risk of getting a male yeast infection. Taking antibiotics kills both disease causing bacteria and normal bacteria that lives in our body and on our skin. When the normal bacteria are killed it gives yeast a chance to overgrow and cause a male yeast infection.

• Unprotected Sex With Infected Partner: Some men can also get a genital yeast infection if they have unprotected sex. Getting a genital yeast infection from an infected partner is not common, but it does happen.

• Diabetes: When the blood sugar is elevated it encourages the growth of yeast. This is one reason to keep diabetes under control.

• HIV: In HIV the immune system is less effective so men are more susceptible to male yeast infections.

• Being Treated For Cancer: Cancer treatments kill cancer cells, but cancer treatments can also upset the balance of bacteria and yeast in the body. This places people being treated for cancer at an increased risk of male yeast infections.

What Are Symptoms Of A Male Yeast Infection?
The man with a male yeast infection will have a red rash, often with itching or burning at the head of the penis. Over the counter medications such as the antifungal cream Monistat can also be used by men too. If the rash doesn’t respond to the cream, call your doctor.  Oral infections are also possible in men. Oral or yeast mouth is also called thrush.

To Prevent Reinfection

• During treatment wash towels frequently in hot water to avoid reinfecting yourself.

• Keep your groin area clean and dry. Wear loose fitting clothes that wick moisture away from your body. Cotton and other natural fibers are best.

• Make sure your partner is also checked for a yeast infection. During the time you or your partner are being treated for yeast infection, avoid sexual relations. This way you can avoid reinfecting each other.

Male yeast infection can be prevented in many instances. Avoid sharing clothes and towels from others if you are susceptible to male yeast infections.

Photo by Sandra Smit

Home