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Yeast Infection Causes in Men

Yeast infections are commonly associated with women, but men can get them too. Oral yeast infections, not to be confused with thrush, are a common occurrence in men with HIV. Men can also get penile yeast infections, but because they may not show the same signs and symptoms as a woman does, these infections often go undiagnosed until they become extremely painful.

  1. Sexual Transmission

    • Candida is the fungus that causes yeast infections. A yeast infection can be passed between sexual partners unknowingly. Some women have sexual intercourse without realizing they have an infection. Once the infection is known, both partners should use an over-the-counter treatment such as Monistat and forgo sexual contact until all symptoms are gone. Otherwise, the couple may continue to pass the infection back and forth.

    Antibiotics

    • Prolonged antibiotic use can cause recurrent yeast infections in both men and women. Because antibiotics disturb the normal balance of bacteria, they can leave patients susceptible to an overgrowth of fungus.

    Diabetes

    • People with diabetes have a higher risk of developing any kind of infection, so diabetic men are more susceptible to penile yeast infections. Men who have not been diagnosed with diabetes but suffer from chronic yeast infections, abnormal thirst and frequent urination should consult a doctor immediately.

    Nonoxynol-9

    • Nonoxynol-9, a spermicide, has been linked to yeast infections. If you or your partner have frequent infections, check your contraceptive's ingredient list.

    Diagnosis and Treatment

    • The most common symptoms of a penile yeast infection are soreness and irritation at the tip of the penis, which may be accompanied by severe itching. The head of the penis may be red and blistery, and there may be a discharge. Some men have symptoms similar to those of genital herpes.

      Medications can be prescribed for treatment of yeast infections, but a man can purchase the same over-the-counter yeast infection treatment kit as a woman. The kits come in cream or suppository form and vary by length of treatment, but a seven-day regimen may prove the most effective.

      Natural remedies include rubbing plain yogurt on the affected areas just before bed. Some men add a few drops of white vinegar to an over-the-counter yeast infection treatment cream before applying and find this to be effective.

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