Can Men Get Yeast Infections?
If you mention the words "yeast infection" or "thrush" most people immediately think of vaginal yeast infections and yogurt! Yes, yeast infections are commonly viewed as something that women suffer from but men can get yeast infections too.
Even when people know that both sexes can have it, it's often regarded as something that women "give" to men. Actually a large percentage of both sexes carry yeast fungi, or candida, within or on their bodies without any problems. Although it is possible to pass on the candida to others it's not actually very common.
These naturally occurring yeast only turn into an infection when they become over abundant. Yeasts love warm, moist places like the vagina and in men, the scrotum and penis area. So if that area becomes extra warm and sticky for sometime then their numbers can multiply.
For men their main concern is penile yeast infections or penis thrush as it is often called. Penile thrush is classed as an STD because it can be passed on sexually but it's important to remember this isn't the only way to develop the infection. Any man whatever their age or level of sexual activity can, in fact, be infected with this form of yeast infection, though it is more common in sexually active men.
Symptoms include patchy redness of the foreskin or penis which can be very itchy, there may also be little red spots on the head of the penis and a penile discharge. In addition some material may collect under the foreskin which looks a bit like cottage cheese and it may have a yeasty smell.
If you have any of these symptoms you should immediately consult your doctoror STD clinic. They will be able to confirm that you do have a male yeast infection. Thrush in men is only a minor problem which can be effectively treated with any anti-fungal creams or ointments. However, if not treated the penis can become inflamed making it difficult to retract the foreskin.
Both sexes can get oral thrush and yeast infections of the skin but the latter are often more common in men because they sweat more.
By following a good hygiene routine many yeast infections will never take hold. Do wash and dry throughly any areas vulnerable to attack like the groin area, armpits and under folds of skin. If it's a hot day don't wear tight trousers and if you're a little on the portly side wear loose clothing preferably made from natural fibers to reduce pockets of sweat building up. If you like going to the gym always shower straight after and don't forget to dry throughly.
Taking antibiotics can also trigger off infections so try eating live yogurt whilst you are taking the tablets and be extra careful with hygiene can ward off an attack.