Male Yeast Infection Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

Male yeast infections are caused by the overgrowth of the same fungus, called Candida albicans, that causes vaginal yeast infections. The infection, also known as penile candidiasis, can cause burning, itching, and swelling of the penis head and foreskin along with sores, blisters, and a foul-smelling discharge.1

Candida normally resides on the skin and is usually well controlled by the immune system. But in some people, particularly those with foreskins or weakened immune systems, the fungus can suddenly overgrow, leading to an infection. Treatment typically involved topical antifungals.1

This article describes the symptoms, causes, and complications of a male yeast infection. It also explains how penile candidiasis is treated and what you can do to prevent recurrence.

Male Yeast Infection Symptoms: How You Know

Male yeast infections do not always cause symptoms right away. Sometimes, they start with a nagging itch or discomfort that progressively worsens as the fungus starts to spread and affect deeper tissues.2

The rapid spread of fungus around the head of the penis (glans) and under the foreskin (prepuce) can trigger an inflammatory response, leading to candidal balanitis (inflammation of the glans) or candidal balanoposthitis (inflammation of the glans and prepuce).3

Symptoms of male yeast infection include:4

• Burning, itching, and irritation around the head of the penis and under the foreskin
• Small pimple-like bumps or blisters
• Shiny, raw sores or patches on the penis head
• A thick, foul-smelling discharge under the foreskin or head of the penis
• Swelling of the foreskin, making it harder to retract
• A burning sensation when you pee
• Pain during sex

Some of these symptoms mimic those of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis. It is important, therefore, to see a healthcare provider to diagnose the cause of your symptoms. If it is an STI, treatment can prevent the spread of infection to others.

How Do Men Get Yeast Infections?

Candida albicans is a fungus found normally on the skin and in the digestive tract. When the immune system is functioning normally, it keeps the fungus under control. Competition from other naturally occurring microorganisms, such as bacteria, also keeps the fungal population in check.6

Under certain conditions, Candida can suddenly overgrow, most often when an illness or condition interferes with the immune response. Candida also thrives in warm, moist environments and may proliferate if the skin is not cleaned regularly.6

Some of the main risk factors of a male yeast infection include:7

• Having an uncircumcised penis
• Not cleaning the penis and under the foreskin regularly
• Having a weakened immune system due to diseases like HIV or cancer
• Being on immunosuppressive treatments like chemotherapy or corticosteroids (steroids)
• Having diabetes, which changes the pH of the skin and makes it more hospitable to fungus
• Long-term use of antibiotics, which can deplete "good" bacteria from the skin
• Wearing tight underwear that locks in heat and moisture
• Having obesity, which increases skin folds that trap moisture
  
• Using harsh soaps or spermicides, which disrupt the balance of microorganisms on the skin

How to Get Rid of a Male Yeast Infection

A mild yeast infection may not require treatment and may resolve on its own with improved hygiene and gentle skin care.9

More often than not, however, candidal infections of the penis will benefit from treatment with a topical antifungal cream. Some are available over the counter (OTC) while others require a prescription from your healthcare provider.

Some of the more common options include:1

• Lotrimin (clotrimazole 1%) cream, available OTC or by prescription
• Micotin (miconazole 2$) cream, available OTC or by prescription
• Mycostatin (nystatin 100,000 USP) cream, available by prescription only

The medications are typically applied to the affected skin twice daily for 10 to 14 days. Most infections resolve within this timeframe.1

To reduce inflammation and swelling, some providers may recommend twice-daily applications of a topical steroid called hydrocortisone 1% cream (available over the counter under the brand name Cortizone and others).10

If topical antifungals fail to clear the infection, oral antifungals like Diflucan (fluconazole) may be needed. The drug is often prescribed in a single 150-milligram (mg) dose, but longer and more aggressive treatment may be needed if the infection has spread to the urinary tract or other organs.11

At-Home Treatments for Male Yeast Infections

There are a few natural remedies you can try at home to help get rid of a male yeast infection. These are not applied to the skin but are instead taken by mouth. In theory, these may correct imbalances of the natural flora of the skin as well as the gut.

These natural remedies include:

• Probiotics: Eating more probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and kimchi can help replenish the "good" bacteria in your body’s microbiome.12
• Apple cider vinegar: This home remedy may exert antifungal properties when regularly consumed (usually in doses of 1 tablespoon diluted in an 8-ounce glass of water).13
• Garlic supplements: Though evidence is lacking, some small studies suggest that garlic supplements can help clear yeast infections faster.14

Always speak with your healthcare provider before starting any supplement or natural therapy to ensure it is safe and does not interact with any medications you take.

How to Manage Recurring Yeast Infections

Male yeast infections are usually easily treated but have a tendency to recur. This is because the conditions that gave rise to the infection, including unprotected sex and poor penile hygiene, remain unchanged.

Some studies report that no less than 48% of people with candidal balanoposthitis will experience recurrence.15

To reduce the risk of recurrence:

• Maintain daily hygiene practices, cleaning the penis head and under the foreskin with water and a gentle cleanser. Dry under the foreskin with a soft towel or a blow dryer set on low.
• Avoid baby powder or body powders on your genitals as they can collect moisture.
• Wear boxer shorts or breathable cotton underwear to reduce moisture buildup in the groin.
• Change out of sweaty clothes immediately after work or sports.
• Use condoms during sex to avoid picking up the fungus from a partner.
• If you are vulnerable to recurrence because you are immunocompromised, your healthcare provider may prescribe a low daily dose of oral fluconazole to reduce your risk.
• If you have a foreskin and experience frequent recurrences, consider undergoing a circumcision to have your foreskin removed.

Complications

Male yeast infections can lead to complications if left untreated, This is especially true if you are vulnerable to recurrence.

Among some of the complications commonly seen in men with untreated yeast infections:7

• Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate gland
• Skin lesions: Like leukoplakia and lichen planus that can cause scarring
• Phimosis: Tightening of the foreskin due to tissue scarring
• Urethral stricture: Narrowing of the urethra (the tube through which urine exits the body)

In people with severe immunodeficiency, such as those with untreated HIV, a genital yeast infection can sometimes disseminate (spread) and become systemic (affecting the entire body).16

This condition, known as invasive candidiasis, can affect vital organs like the heart, lungs, brain, and esophagus. Aggressive treatment in a hospital with intravenous antifungals is needed to treat this potentially life-threatening complication.17

Summary

Male yeast infections are caused by a fungus called Candida albicans. The infection can cause redness, pain, swelling, itching, sores, and a foul-smelling discharge. Male yeast infections can be caused by poor hygiene but can also be the result of having a weakened immune system, taking antibiotics or immunosuppressant drugs, or having diabetes or obesity.

A male yeast infection will often clear up on its own. If not, an OTC or prescription antifungal can usually resolve the infection. To prevent recurrence, keep your genitals clean and dry, and wear condoms to reduce your risk of acquiring Candida during sex.