While isn’t often thought of as a “women’s issue,” yeast infections can infect anyone, including men. Candida can be very uncomfortable, and can even cause penis pain, especially when not treated immediately. It can also lead to severe complications if the infection proceeds to the bloodstream. Thankfully, yeast infections are easy to manage and can be cleared up pretty quickly. Let’s talk about how yeast infections can lead to penis pain and how to make it better fast.

Penis Yeast Infection: Symptoms

There are several different symptoms that a man can look for if he thinks he may have a penis yeast infection. These include:

• Red rash
• Shiny white patches on the skin
• White, chunky, foul-smelling discharge
• Itching
• Burning
• Painful urination

These symptoms can also be the same for some partner transmitted diseases, so a man should see a doctor if he is unsure.

Penis Yeast Infection: Causes

An overgrowth of the candida fungus causes yeast infections. Men most commonly get a yeast infection from unprotected sexual contact with an infected partner. Poor hygiene is the other major cause of a penis yeast infection.

Penis Yeast Infection: Men at Higher Risk

One of the major risk factors is having unsafe sex with multiple partners. Men who still have their foreskin have a higher chance of getting a yeast infection causing penis pain. Men who have lax hygiene are also at higher risk for yeast infections. Men who suffer from diabetes, obesity or impaired immune systems are also at a higher risk than other men.

Penis Yeast Infection: Diagnosis

The doctor will perform a physical examination and review a man’s symptoms. Sometimes, the white, chunky discharge from under the penile head will be sampled and tested to confirm the type of fungus that is causing the issue. Early diagnosis is best because it can be treated quickly and before it gets worse. Caught early, the infection can be fully treated in a manner of days.

Penis Yeast Infection: Treatment

Most times, penis yeast infections can be treated with topical antifungals that are available over the counter. However, for more severe or resistant infections, a prescription may be needed. Yeast infections can also reoccur, so talk with a trusted medical professional about a course of treatment.

Penis Yeast Infection: Possible Complications

There are a few complications that a penis yeast infection can bring. Balanitis, an inflammation of the foreskin or glans of the penis, is a known complication. If the balanitis isn’t appropriately treated, it can cause penile scarring, which can make it painful to urinate.

Untreated yeast infections can also enter the bloodstream. This is known as candidemia and is most common in men who have weakened immune systems. This can be treated with antifungal medications, either orally or intravenously.

Penis Yeast Infection: Prevention

There are a few easy ways to prevent a penis yeast infection. The first is to avoid sexual contact with a person who already has one. The infection can also be given back and forth between partners, so it’s essential to stop having sex until both partners are completely cured. Also, practicing monogamy and/or safe sex can significantly reduce the chances of getting a penis yeast infection from a partner.

A man should also practice good hygiene as a way to keep all infections, including Candida, away. Wash the penis daily with warm water and a mild cleanser. Be sure to pull back foreskin and folds and wash thoroughly. Rinse well and pat dry. Next, apply a penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven safe and mild for skin) which is created specifically to strengthen and protect penile skin. With vitamins like A, B, C, and D, this crème keeps infection away and keeps skin fresh while invigorating and giving a little boost to a man’s penis.