What Is Male Yeast Infection

Overview

Although yeast infections are more commonly associated with women, men can also get yeast infections. Male yeast infection, also known as Candida balanitis, is caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a type of fungus. Common symptoms include itching, redness, pain during intercourse, and white discharge. Diagnosis involves a physical examination and sometimes laboratory tests. Treatment options include antifungal creams, oral medication, and home remedies like honey or tea tree oil. If left untreated, complications may arise, such as increased discomfort, foreskin complications, and potential systemic infections. Seeking medical attention is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Causes of male yeast infection

Generally, the “yeast infection” refers to vaginal yeast infection and oral thrush caused by Candida albicans and, less commonly, other Candida species such as C. glabrata.¹ Candida is a fungus, which is a type of organism that can be found in different forms, such as yeast and mould.² In healthy individuals, Candida yeasts are typically found in the normal oral and stomach flora, as well as on the skin.³ Candida albicans is one of the most common yeast found in the mucous membranes of the respiratory system, digestive system, and female reproductive system.⁴ However, their growth is usually controlled by our immune system.

When our immune system is weakened or not functioning properly, it results in overgrowth of Candida, leading to a fungal infection also known as Candidiasis. Penile yeast infection (yeast infection of the penis) is called Candida balanitis.⁵ Balanitis is the inflammation of the glans penis (head of the penis), while posthitis refers to inflammation of the foreskin. And when both the head of the penis and foreskin are infected, it is known as Candida Balanoposthitis.⁶  

Signs and symptoms of male yeast infection

The signs and symptoms of male yeast infection area:⁷

• Itchiness and irritation
• Inflammation (swelling) and redness in the groin area
• Pain - including painful sexual intercourse
• White, lumpy discharge (like cottage cheese) with an unpleasant smell
• Burning sensation while urinating
• White shiny patches 
• Foreskin sores, as well as difficulty pulling back the foreskin

Diagnosis 

A diagnosis of male yeast infection (Candida balanitis) can be confirmed by a healthcare professional: 

• A discussion will take place in which a range of questions will be asked, for example:
  • Symptoms and their onset and duration
  • Hygiene routine 
  • Exposure to potential irritants and allergens, e.g. soap
  • Sexual history
  • A history of, if any, previous skin conditions, e.g. eczema
  • History of medical conditions that weaken your immune system, e.g. diabetes and HIV/AIDS
• A physical examination of the penis
• They may possibly arrange an STI screening if you are deemed high risk or have a suspected infection as symptoms are similar.
• For severe cases, a blood test may be arranged for underlying causes such as diabetes as well as a swab sample for lab testing.

Management and treatment for yeast infection

Treatment for male yeast infection typically involves using antifungal medication. Your healthcare provider may recommend an antifungal cream, lotion or ointment based on your preference. These treatments can be bought over the counter at your local pharmacy. The topical antifungal treatments include miconazole and clotrimazole.⁸ It's important to note that when using topical antifungals, latex condoms should be avoided as they may damage the material, reducing effectiveness.  The treatment duration of a topical antifungal is until the symptoms settle or for up to 14 days.⁸

Alternatively, a single oral dose of fluconazole 150mg can be taken. If inflammation and redness are causing discomfort, they might recommend a steroid cream such as hydrocortisone 1% cream.⁸

While taking medication, you should try to keep the area clean to help reduce the infection:⁸ 

• Clean under the foreskin daily with lukewarm water and ensure the area is dried gently.
• Avoid the use of soaps as it may irritate the area.
• Consider using an emollient (e.g. aqueous cream) as a soap substitute. Emollients are not as harsh and drying, therefore providing a gentle cleansing action and hydrating the skin.⁹

Instead of traditional medicines, home remedies can be used to relieve symptoms:

• Honey: studies have shown that honey can inhibit the growth of fungi*. The researchers discovered that Agastache, manuka and tea tree honey showed the strongest ability to kill fungi.¹⁰
• Tea tree oil: it has been shown to have antifungal properties when applied to the head of the penis (glans penis).¹¹ If pure tea tree oil is brought, it will need to be diluted with a saline solution as it may irritate the skin.
• Coconut oil: a study in 2007 showed that it was effective against Candida albicans.¹³

Always discuss home remedies with your healthcare provider before use.

(*fungi is plural for fungus)

Complications

Sometimes male yeast infections can present with no symptoms. However, if left untreated, symptoms can become severe and lead to several complications such as:

• Increased discomfort and pain: The infection may cause persistent itching, redness and irritation in the genital area. This can eventually create open sores or breaks in the skin. This increases the likelihood of a bacterial infection. 
• Foreskin complications: For those uncircumcised, the infection can cause inflammation of the foreskin (phimosis) or inflammation of the head of the penis (balanitis). This leads to further discomfort and potential difficulties in retracting the foreskin. In severe cases, circumcision may be recommended.
• Recurrence: Untreated male yeast infection may reoccur or become chronic, resulting in persistent symptoms and discomfort. 
• Impact on sexual health: Sexual intercourse may become uncomfortable, affecting intimacy and sexual well-being. In addition, it can be transmitted to your sexual partner.
• Systemic infections: Although rare, in individuals with weakened immune systems, a male yeast infection may enter the bloodstream (systemic) and cause serious health issues.

It is essential to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a yeast infection or experience persistent symptoms. A healthcare provider can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriately to reduce the risk of complications. 

FAQs

How can I prevent male yeast infection?

Being overweight has been linked to an increased likelihood of male yeast infections. Therefore, ensuring a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet is essential to maintaining a healthy weight. A proper hygiene routine is also important, including washing the penis and foreskin with warm water and thoroughly drying it. Avoiding irritants like soaps and using alternatives such as aqueous cream is recommended. Wearing breathable underwear can help reduce warmth and moisture in the groin area. Additionally, regular use of condoms during sexual intercourse will prevent transmission between sexual partners.

How common is male yeast infection?

It’s fairly common to have Candida present in the body, but when overgrown, it can cause
a yeast infection. 16-26% of men carry Candida, and approximately 3-11% will be affected in their lifetime.5 Roughly 3% will experience no symptoms, and 27% will eventually develop Candida balanoposthitis.¹⁵

Who is at risk of male yeast infection?

Although male yeast infection can be passed through sexual activity, it is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI). There are a range of other risk factors that can cause this other than sex; this includes the following:⁶

• Poor hygiene
• Uncircumcised
• Diabetes (uncontrolled diabetes increases the presence of sugar in the urine, which increases the growth of yeast)
• Warm, moist environment 
• Health conditions that weaken the immune system (e.g. HIV/AIDS and cancer)
• Prolonged use of antibiotics (antibiotics kill the healthy bacteria in the body and make it easier for Candida to grow rapidly)
• Tight, fitting underwear and wet clothing
• Overweight
• Condoms containing lubricants
• Spermicides 
• Products that can irritate the skin (e.g. soaps)  

What can I expect if I have a male yeast infection?

It is possible to experience no symptoms; however, if you do, a range of symptoms may occur, such as itchiness, redness, or a white, cottage cheese-like discharge. If you have any concerns, your local healthcare provider or sexual health clinic can provide advice and information.

How long does a male yeast infection last?

When the infection is detected early and treatment is started, it should clear within 4-14 days. If symptoms persist, it is advisable to contact your healthcare provider, as further treatment may be required, and additional testing may be necessary to identify any underlying issue. The yeast infection could potentially be an indication of another disease.

When should I see a doctor?

You should see if:

• It is your first time experiencing these symptoms
• You are under 16 years old or over 60 years old
• If you have a recurring thrush (more than 4 times in 12 months) 
• Treatment has not worked (persistent symptoms)
• You have a weakened immune system  

Summary

Male yeast infection is caused by Candida balanitis overgrowth, affecting 3-11% of men in their lifetime. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to avoid potential complications, such as foreskin issues, recurrence, and impact on sexual health. Seeking medical attention is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management. Preventive measures include maintaining good hygiene and a healthy lifestyle.