Yeast infections are more common in women than men with the result that many people are under the impression that only women get yeast infections. This is not the case, infections occur regardless of sex, and hundreds of thousands of men suffer from male yeast infection every year.
The infection is caused by an overgrowth of the Candida albicans species of yeast (pictured right). Yeasts are a type of fungus that thrives in warm, damp and dark environments. These conditions occur in many parts of our body including, of course, the penis. Candida normally lives harmlessly on our bodies but an infection occurs when the yeast multiplies quickly and overgrows. When describing the symptoms of yeast infection in men, the focus is mostly on yeast infections that only affect men.
Major male yeast infection symptoms and causes
The major symptom of penile yeast infection is irritation and itching of the head (glans) of the penis. The head can become quite sore and redden. Some sufferers have complained of rashes and small white and red blisters or bumps appearing on the penis tip. The rash can be either along the shaft of the penis or on the tip.
The yeast infection is associated with a burning sensation with urination or when the penis comes into contact with clothing. Sex can be painful. There may also be a slight swelling of the infected area. In some instances a white discharge forms around the penis head, but this alone is not always a sign of an infection.
These symptoms can occur quite rapidly. It is possible for all the above symptoms to occur over a matter of hours or days.
Many of the symptoms of male yeast infection are consistent with Balanitis, a term used to describe all conditions that involve the inflammation of the head of the penis (and foreskin, if uncircumcised). Balanitis may also be caused by poor hygiene or irritation due to strong soaps, latex or chemicals used in condoms.
Causes of male yeast infection of the penis
- Overuse of antibiotics as these destroy beneficial bacteria that are thought to keep yeasts and other potentially pathogenic organisms in check.
- Stress, primarily due to its negative impact on the immune system. Hormonal changes may also be a factor.
- Nutrient deficiency and poor diet.
- Suppressed or weak immune system.
- Diabetes.
- Sexual intercourse with an infected partner. While this is one of the main causes of yeast infections of the penis, celibate men can also develop the disease.
- Use of certain spermicidal creams or condoms as these alter the chemical balance of the skin.
- Use of corticosteroid medications.
Male yeast infection cures
There are a number of strategies available when it comes to yeast infection treatment for men:
- A homeopathic spray called Yeastrol, consistently receives positive reviews from sufferers. See our Yeastrol review for more information. The product contains 12 ingredients to fight not just the itching but also the angry rash associated with the disease.
- If your condition is chronic, it may be because you are not addressing the root cause of the yeast infection, and conditions still exist in the body that are conducive to a Candida overgrowth. For a permanent solution to yeast infections of all kinds, more men are turning to Linda Allen’s 5 step method, called Yeast Infection No More.
- Consider using a topical anti-yeast cream such as Monistat. The product is designed for vaginal yeast infections, but will also work for men.
- As a last resort, prescription drugs, taken orally that contain broad-spectrum antifungal agents are available.
- See more on treating male yeast infection.