Can men get yeast infections?

Symptoms | Causes | Risk factors | Complications | Treatment | FAQs

While it’s true that yeast infections (candidiasis) are more prevalent among women, men can get yeast infections, too. 

Both female and male yeast infections are caused by a fungus called Candida albicans, which is a natural part of our skin flora, especially in moist areas and mucous membranes. However, an overgrowth of the candida fungus in the mouth, foreskin, or head of the penis can cause a yeast infection. 

Because they often emerge after sexual intercourse and affect the sexual organs, it’s tempting to lump yeast infections with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). However, the infection isn’t spread via sex, but sexual contact can spark the growth of the candida fungus, catalyzing an infection. These are just some misconceptions about yeast infections in men, so here’s what you need to know to identify, prevent, and treat a male yeast infection.

Symptoms of male yeast infections

Most might cringe at the thought of fungal overgrowth on their genitals, but the good news is that some men don’t experience any symptoms of yeast infections. Others, however, might begin to notice early symptoms, such as moist skin around the penile head, redness, and itching. As the infection progresses, common symptoms and signs of a penile yeast infection might include:

• More severe skin irritation or itchiness
• Inflammation of the head of the penis
• Sores on the foreskin or penis
• A white discharge in the penile skin folds (resembling cottage cheese)
• Discomfort during sex
• A moldy smell
• A burning sensation during urination
• A red rash
• Whiteish, shiny patches of skin

A candidal infection can also lead to candida balanitis, a condition characterized by inflammation in the penile head and foreskin. 

Because candida also exists in the mouth, it’s possible to develop a different type of yeast infection called oral thrush, which might include the following symptoms:

• White lesions on the tongue, inner cheeks, palate, tonsils, or gums
• Loss of taste
• Redness, burning, or soreness
• A bad taste in the mouth
• A cotton-like sensation in the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing

Someone with particularly severe symptoms or an infection that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter (OTC) medications should visit a healthcare provider. Anyone experiencing their very first yeast infection should also schedule an appointment. Doctors can often clinically diagnose a penile yeast infection, says Susan Bard, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Vive Dermatology Surgery & Aesthetics in Brooklyn. It’s often recognizable through symptoms, medical history, and a visual examination. If necessary, she says, a diagnosis can be “confirmed with a fungal culture swab.” 

Male yeast infection causes

We’ve already established that yeast infections in men and women are caused by an excess of candida yeast on the skin. Moist, occluded areas are the biggest risk factor, says Dr. Bard. These areas are conducive environments for a candida imbalance. Perhaps the more pressing question is: what causes this fungal imbalance? The most common culprit is sexual contact with an affected partner. Again, these fungal infections aren’t contagious, and they’re not sexually transmitted infections, but a direct encounter with candida overgrowth can affect the skin’s natural fungal cells. 

Penile yeast infection risk factors

The good news is that penile yeast infections are somewhat avoidable. However, certain behaviors, medications, and conditions can drastically increase the chances of developing a candida infection, such as:

• Poor hygiene and cleanliness
• Having diabetes (higher blood sugar means more sugar in a man’s urine, which can stimulate yeast growth)
• Using soaps or shower gels that irritate the skin
• Being uncircumcised
• Humid, moist environments
• Prolonged use of antibiotics
• Obesity
• Diseases that suppress the immune system

Avoiding these risk factors can contribute significantly to yeast infection prevention. 

Penile yeast infection complications 

In rare cases, it is possible for a penile yeast infection to resolve on its own. Usually, yeast infections can lead to further complications if left untreated. These complications include:

• Worsening of symptoms already present
• Open sores and bleeding caused by itching
• Extreme pain and discomfort
• Severe infection
• Spreading to other parts of the body
• Spreading to the bloodstream (candidemia, which can cause death if not treated)

Male yeast infection treatment

The easiest way to avoid or treat yeast infections is to take preventative measures. Sometimes, even if a man takes every precaution, he might still end up with excess fungus. Luckily, it is treatable. Most cases are mild and will respond to OTC antifungal drugs, but severe cases might require stronger prescription medications.

Male yeast infection home remedies

Let’s start with the basics. Good hygiene is essential. Keeping the genital area clean and dry will help manage fungal growth. Using scented shower gels and wearing tight-fitting underwear can irritate the skin and contribute to a warm, moist environment, which is a yeast paradise. Wearing a condom during sexual activity will also help protect the penis from a fungal imbalance. 

Candida infections will occasionally go away on their own, but ignoring them isn’t a good idea. A few yeast infection home remedies can be useful for mild cases. Taking probiotic supplements or eating probiotic-rich foods, like natural yogurt, can help restore the body’s yeast and bacteria balances. Natural foods and oils with antifungal properties can also act as effective topical treatments. These various herbal remedies include:

• Garlic
• Tea tree oil
• Coconut oil
• Apple cider vinegar (always dilute it first!)
• Hydrogen peroxide (also diluted)

Men who have a yeast infection should also refrain from sex until they’ve recovered, as it can further irritate the affected area and potentially throw off their partner’s candida balance.

Oral thrush may respond to similar home remedies, but mixed with water and used as a mouthwash. Saltwater rinses can also be effective. 

Medications

Simple OTC antifungal medications can handle most penile yeast infections and oral thrush. Some of the most effective antifungal creams include Lotrimin (clotrimazole) and Monistat (miconazole). The latter is often marketed specifically for women with vaginal yeast infections, but it’s just as effective for men. The primary side effect of these topical medications is temporary irritation, such as burning or itching, at the application site.

“Topical antifungals are typically effective,” Dr. Bard says. “For recalcitrant infections, an oral antifungal may be prescribed.” A healthcare provider can prescribe a one-time dose of stronger oral antifungal medication, like Diflucan (fluconazole). Yeast infections, even severe ones, will typically go away after a short course of prescription medication.

Oral thrush treatments often involve an antifungal mouthwash using Diflucan, Mycelex Troche, Nystop, or Ketoconazole instead.

With proper care and medications, most penile yeast infections should resolve within three to 14 days. Any infection that persists beyond two weeks, even with medication, warrants another trip to the doctor, as it might require a different treatment.

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Male yeast infection FAQs

How common are male yeast infections?

Yeast infections are not very common in men. They usually affect about 3% to 11% of men throughout their lifetime. Men experience yeast infections much less than women, who have a 75% chance of experiencing one and a 45% chance of experiencing two throughout their lifetimes. 

How long does a penile yeast infection last?

Penile yeast infections should resolve within three to 14 days of initiating treatment. If symptoms do not resolve after 14 days or if they get worse at all, a healthcare provider should be consulted.

Are penile yeast infections contagious?

Penile yeast infections are not contagious, but exposure to overgrowth of candida can affect the skin’s fungal balance. 

How do you prevent a penile yeast infection?

Penile yeast infections can be prevented by practicing good hygiene, using unscented soap, wearing loose-fitting cotton underwear, and avoiding unprotected sex. In addition, having a diet that includes probiotics can also help prevent a penile yeast infection by balancing the amount of bacteria and yeast present.