Candidiasis in Men
Yeast infections in men are common because the fungus that causes yeast infections (candida) is normally present on skin, especially moist skin.
Balanitis is more common in uncircumcised men.
Signs and symptoms of Balanitis
- Moist skin on the penis, possibly with areas of a thick, white substance collecting in skin folds
- Areas of shiny, white skin on the penis
- Redness, itching or a burning sensation on the penis
You may be more likely to develop balanitis from a yeast infection if you:
- Aren’t circumcised
- Use antibiotics for prolonged periods
- Have diabetes
- Have an impaired immune system, such as with HIV
- Are overweight
- Practice poor hygiene
If you and your partner both have symptoms of a yeast infection, it’s important that you both be treated to avoid reinfecting each other.
Treatment options
Treatment includes topical creams or oral medication. Usually this treatment works well in clearing the infection.
However, in some men, this infection may be recurrent and occurs several times a year. This happens more often among men with diabetes as they are at higher risk of infection. In cases of recurrent balanitis, circumcision would be the best solution to prevent recurrent balanitis.
Do see a doctor if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
