Many of us are aware of what yeast infections are, and many women have had one before. But did you know? While women are certainly more susceptible to getting these types of fungal infections, men can get them, too.

Our AFC Urgent Care Greenwood team explains why below, so keep reading.

What Is a Yeast Infection?

Yeast infections occur when there is an overgrowth of Candida, a type of fungus that lives inside the body. While vaginal yeast infections are the most common type of yeast infection, yeast infections also develop in the mouth, throat and gut.

Additionally, yeast infections are extremely common among women, as up to three out of four women will develop one at some point in their lives. We’ve listed the most common yeast infection symptoms that women experience below.

Common Yeast Infection Symptoms

• Itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva
• A burning sensation, especially during intercourse or while urinating
• Redness and swelling of the vulva
• Vaginal pain and soreness
• Vaginal rash
• Thick, white, odor-free vaginal discharge with a cottage cheese appearance
• Watery vaginal discharge

Can Males Get Yeast Infections?

Yes, they can. In fact, a yeast infection is the same among males as it is among females—an infection that is typically caused by an overgrowth of Candida, the body’s natural, healthy yeast.

While many different factors can contribute to a female’s yeast infection, the leading cause of yeast infection among males is transmission from another person, such as having sex with a partner who has a vaginal yeast infection. This can lead to a to a condition known as balanitis, which is an inflammation of the head of the penis. We’ve listed the common symptoms of yeast infection among males below.

Male Yeast Infection Symptoms

• Itching or burning on the tip of the penis or the foreskin
• Redness
• A moist feeling on the tip of the penis
• Discharge that looks like cottage cheese and might have a bread-like or unpleasant smell
• Swelling around the tip of the penis and foreskin
• Sores or white patches of skin
• Trouble urinating
• A hard time getting or keeping an erection

Have further questions about yeast infections? If so, don’t hesitate to stop by or reach out to our AFC Urgent Care Greenwood team today!