It’s true that yeast infections are most common among females, but they can also happen to males, too. But, why?

Our AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail team provides some helpful answers below, so keep reading.

How Do Yeast Infections Happen to Males?

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—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

What Does a Yeast Infection Look Like Among Women?

Yeast infections are very common among women, as nearly 75% of women will get one at some point in their lives.

Yeast infections are uncomfortable and can cause discharge and burning, but they do not cause permanent damage. We’ve listed the common symptoms of a yeast infection among women below.

Female Yeast Infection Symptoms

• Itching, burning, or irritation of the vagina or vulva
• Pain or soreness in the vagina
• Vaginal burning with intercourse or urination
• A thick, white, odorless discharge that resembles cottage cheese, or a watery discharge
• Rash

Whether you’re a male or female, a yeast infection is possible. If you think you may have one, don’t hesitate to visit our AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail center to get the treatment you need!