What is Genital Yeast Infection in Men
In men, a genital yeast infection is a condition that causes soreness, swelling, and redness (inflammation) of the head of the penis (glans penis). This type of infection is also called balanitis. A genital yeast infection can be spread through sexual contact, but it can also develop without sexual contact. If the infection is not treated properly, it is likely to come back.
What are the causes?
This condition is caused by a change in the normal balance of the yeast and bacteria that live on the skin. This change causes an overgrowth of yeast, which causes the inflammation. Many types of yeast can cause this infection, but candidais the most common.
What increases the risk?
This condition is more likely to develop in a man if:
- He takes antibiotic medicines.
- He has diabetes.
- He is exposed to the infection by a sexual partner.
- He is not circumcised.
- He has a weak defense (immune) system.
- He has been taking steroid medicines for a long time.
- He has poor hygiene.
What are the signs or symptoms?
Symptoms of this condition include:
- Itching.
- Dry, red, or cracked skin on the penis.
- Swelling.
- Pain while urinating or difficulty urinating.
- Thick, bad-smelling discharge on the penis.
How is this diagnosed?
This condition is diagnosed with a medical history and physical exam. Your health care provider may examine a sample of any discharge from the penis and send the sample for testing. You may also have tests, including:
- A urine test to rule out a urinary tract infection (UTI).
- A blood test to rule out diabetes.
How is this treated?
This condition is treated with antifungal cream or pills along with self-care at home. Antifungal medicines may be prescribed to you or they may be available over-the-counter.
For men who are not circumcised, circumcision may be recommended to control infections that return and are difficult to treat.
Follow these instructions at home:
- Take or apply over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.
- Do nothave sex until your health care provider has approved. Tell your sexual partner that you have a yeast infection. That person should go to his or her health care provider if he or she develops symptoms.
- Eat more yogurt. This may help to keep your yeast infection from returning.
- Wash your penis with soap and water every day. If you are not circumcised, pull back the foreskin to wash. Make sure to dry your penis completely after washing.
- Wear breathable, cotton underwear.
- Keep your underwear clean and dry.
- If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar levels under strict control.
Contact a health care provider if:
- You have a fever.
- Your symptoms go away and then return.
- Your symptoms do not get better with treatment.
- Your symptoms get worse.
- You have new symptoms.
Get help right away if:
- Your swelling and inflammation become so severe that you cannot urinate.
