A yeast infection is a fungal infection on the skin or any mucous membranes. A yeast infection is caused by the fungus Candida, and thus is also referred to as candidiasis. The most common yeast infection sites are the vagina and vulva (vulvovaginal candidiasis), the nails (onychomycosis), and the mouth and/or throat (oral thrush). 1Although vulvovaginal candidiasis is more common than penile, both people with penises and people with vulvas can develop yeast infections.
Table of Contents
Vaginal Yeast Infections
Vaginal yeast infections are known simply as “yeast infections.” This infection affects up to 3 out of 4 people with vulvas at some point in their lifetimes. 2 Yeast infections are common; however, symptoms of yeast infections are similar to those of other conditions. Therefore, a medical diagnosis is recommended to receive proper treatment.
Causes
Yeast infections are caused by a fungal overgrowth in the vagina or vulva. The fungus Candida albicans is usually present on the skin and mucus membranes of healthy individuals. Candida albicans is present in a healthy vagina, and in most cases is not a cause for concern because the levels of Candida albicans are kept under control by the “good” bacteria Lactobacillus. However, when an imbalance in the body reduces the amount of Lactobacillus or prevents them from functioning, the pH of the vagina can be altered, which leads to an overgrowth of fungus.3 The change in pH can have many causes, including: 4
- Antibiotics
- Fluctuations in hormones due to pregnancy, hormonal birth control, or hormone therapy
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- An impaired immune system
- Hot, humid weather or non-ventilating clothing
- Potential irritants to the vagina that affect pH balance
If a person has frequent, recurring yeast infections, their doctor may test for the presence of a different strain of Candida and prescribe a treatment targeted to that particular strain.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Yeast infections generally cause mild to moderate discomfort, but symptoms can become more severe if the infection is present for an extended period. They are categorized as either simple/uncomplicated or complicated. Uncomplicated yeast infections are not recurring or persistent and have mild to moderate symptoms.5 Common symptoms of an uncomplicated yeast infection: 6
- Itching
- Burning, especially during intercourse or urination
- Redness or swelling of the vulva
- Changes in vaginal discharge; thick, white, and odorless, with a cottage-cheese like appearance
- Vaginal rash
Yeast infections can develop complications and thus result in more severe symptoms. This scenario requires a different course of treatment than uncomplicated yeast infections. A yeast infection is considered complicated if any of the following factors are present: 7
- Extensive redness, swelling and itching that leads to tears, cracks, or sores
- Recurrent infections, generally 4 or more infections in a year
- Infection is caused by a less typical type of fungus
- Pregnancy
- A weakened immune system due to medications or HIV/AIDS
When developing symptoms of a yeast infection for the first time it is important to see your doctor or healthcare provider for a diagnosis and treatment. Though uncomfortable and bothersome, most cases of vaginal yeast infection are mild, and some people do not experience any symptoms.
People who were previously diagnosed with one or more yeast infections in their lives may be able to recognize the symptoms of a yeast infection. However, one should not diagnose themselves if they have never had a yeast infection before. Symptoms of a yeast infection often overlap with those of other infections, which makes self-diagnosis is unreliable. If one suspects that they have a yeast infection, they should make an appointment with a healthcare provider.
Treatment
Yeast infections may clear up on their own during a menstrual period. This may occur because the pH of the vagina increases during this time. However, yeast infections do not always clear up without treatment, and for some people the discomfort is so severe that they require immediate treatment.
Yeast infections are treated with antifungal medication, this treatment is generally simple and inexpensive. Some of the treatment options require a prescription, whereas others can be obtained over the counter. Yeast infections of the vagina or penis can be treated with creams or medicated suppositories. Whereas yeast infection in the mouth (thrush) may be treated with a medicated mouthwash, or lozenges that dissolve in the mouth. 8 One should follow up with their healthcare provider if symptoms persist after treatment.
Prevention
Certain factors make yeast infections more plausible. Here are some precautions that can decrease the likelihood of developing a yeast infection: 9
- Good oral hygiene, which can prevent thrush
- Wearing cotton underwear
- Keep areas where skin rubs up against skin dry to reduce friction
- Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom
- Avoid douching
- Avoid scented feminine products
- Avoid staying in wet clothes
- Avoid the use of unnecessary antibiotics
Penile Yeast Infections
Although yeast infections are more common in people with vulvas, people with penises can develop symptoms as well. Causes for penile yeast infections are generally the same as the causes for people with vulvas.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
In people with penises, symptoms of yeast infections can sometimes be like those of herpes. A proper diagnosis from a doctor is essential to determine if they have developed a yeast infection. Symptoms of yeast infections in males include the following: 10
- Small white spots on the penis
- Redness
- Itching, irritation, and burning, especially while urinating or during intercourse
- Papules (small, rash-like bumps), which may or may not be pus-filled
- Clumpy white discharge from the urethra
- Discharge under the foreskin
- Unpleasant odor
People who were previously diagnosed with a yeast infection may treat themselves with over-the-counter medication such as clotrimazole, but if symptoms do not subside, they should see a doctor.
Treatment
Penile yeast infections may go away by themselves; however, if the symptoms persist, the infection could spread to the inner thighs, scrotum, or anus. 11 The treatment for penile yeast infections is similar to that of vaginal yeast infections. The infection can be treated by oral or topical antifungal medication.
Prevention
Prevention of male yeast infections is like that of vaginal yeast infections. Certain preventative measures decrease the likelihood of developing a yeast infection: 12
- Washing the penis with warm water
- Washing under the foreskin (if it is present)
- Avoid using scented soaps, shower gels, and lotions on the penis
- Dry the penis carefully after showering or swimming
- Wear loose underwear made of natural materials
Yeast Infections and Sex
Contracting a yeast infection through sexual contact with an infected partner is not common. However, a yeast infection can be passed through oral sex if the giving partner has oral thrush; likewise, performing oral sex on a partner with a genital yeast infection can lead to oral thrush. In rare cases, one partner may pass their infection to the other partner through penile/vaginal sex.13 Additionally, partners may infect each other by sharing sex toys. It is recommended to properly clean sex toys before and after each use.
The symptoms associated with yeast infections can make sex uncomfortable or painful. Therefore, it is necessary to communicate with sexual partners if one is experiencing symptoms of a yeast infection.
Concluding Remarks
Even though yeast infections can be passed from one sexual partner to another, they are not considered sexually transmitted infections (STIs). While yeast infections themselves are not associated with an increased risk of STIs, cuts and tears in the vaginal tissue from scratching or irritation can allow bacteria and viruses from STIs to enter the body. 14 Using a condom is recommended to prevent sexually transmitted infections.
Anyone can develop a genital yeast infection. Genital yeast infections are relatively common in people with vulvas, but they are less common in people with penises. One should prioritize visiting a doctor if they are experiencing symptoms of a yeast infection. Although uncomfortable, yeast infections are treatable.
References
- Giselle C. , de O. S. (2018, July 3). Candida Infections and Therapeutic Strategies: Mechanisms of Action for Traditional and Alternative Agents. National Library of Medicine .
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2021, March 17). Yeast infection (vaginal). Mayo Clinic.
- Giselle C. , de O. S. (2018, July 3). Candida Infections and Therapeutic Strategies: Mechanisms of Action for Traditional and Alternative Agents. National Library of Medicine .
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2021, March 17). Yeast infection (vaginal). Mayo Clinic.
- Yeast infection. Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2019, December 2).
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2021, March 17). Yeast infection (vaginal). Mayo Clinic.
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2021, March 17). Yeast infection (vaginal). Mayo Clinic.
- Yeast infection. Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2019, December 2).
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2021, March 17). Yeast infection (vaginal). Mayo Clinic.
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2020, November 13). Yeast infection in men: How can I tell if I have one? Mayo Clinic.
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2020, November 13). Yeast infection in men: How can I tell if I have one? Mayo Clinic.
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2020, November 13). Yeast infection in men: How can I tell if I have one? Mayo Clinic.
- Rylander, E., Berglund, A.-L., Krassny, C., & Petrini, B. (2004, February). Vulvovaginal Candida in a young sexually active population: Prevalence and association with Oro-Genital Sex and frequent pain at Intercourse. Sexually transmitted infections.
Last updated: 24 May 2022.