A vaginal yeast infection (vulvovaginal candidiasis) involves an overgrowth of the Candida fungus, most often Candida albicans. This organism is naturally present in small amounts within the body’s microflora. An infection occurs when factors like antibiotic use, hormonal changes, or a compromised immune system disrupt the natural balance, allowing the fungus to multiply excessively and cause symptoms.
Sexual Transmission Risk
A male partner can acquire a yeast infection from a female partner, though it is not classified as a traditional sexually transmitted infection (STI). The Candida fungus can be passed during sexual contact, making it a sexually associated infection. However, the male partner often remains an asymptomatic carrier because the fungus does not typically cause a symptomatic infection in the male reproductive tract.
Research suggests that approximately 15% of men may develop symptoms of a penile yeast infection following unprotected intercourse. The risk is higher for certain individuals, particularly uncircumcised men. The warm, moist environment beneath the foreskin provides an ideal setting for the Candida fungus to grow.
Other factors that increase a man’s vulnerability include underlying health conditions like diabetes, which leads to higher sugar levels that encourage yeast growth. Individuals with a weakened immune system or those taking long-term antibiotics are also at greater risk. While transmission is possible, the overall likelihood of a man developing a full-blown symptomatic infection is relatively low compared to the woman experiencing one.
Symptoms in Male Partners
When the Candida fungus causes a symptomatic infection in a male partner, the condition is referred to as candidal balanitis, which is inflammation of the head of the penis. Common signs involve localized irritation, including redness and itching around the glans. This discomfort can also manifest as a burning sensation on the head of the penis.
A distinct indicator of this infection is the presence of a thick, white discharge that often resembles cottage cheese, particularly accumulating under the foreskin. Men may also observe small, shiny sores, red bumps, or a blotchy rash on the glans. Less frequently, candidal balanitis can extend to cause urethritis, which is inflammation of the urethra, potentially causing pain during urination.
Management and Prevention
Treatment for a yeast infection in a male partner is often straightforward, focusing on eliminating the fungal overgrowth. Over-the-counter antifungal creams or ointments containing active ingredients like miconazole or clotrimazole are effective for localized infections. These topical treatments are applied directly to the affected area, usually for one to two weeks.
For persistent, severe, or recurrent symptoms, a healthcare provider may prescribe an oral antifungal medication, such as fluconazole. Maintaining rigorous hygiene is a foundational aspect of both management and prevention. This involves washing the genital area daily with warm water and mild soap, ensuring the area is completely dry afterward.
Uncircumcised men should carefully retract the foreskin to clean and dry the area underneath thoroughly, as moisture and fungus can easily accumulate there. To prevent transmission or reinfection, it is recommended to avoid sexual activity until both partners have completed treatment and all symptoms have cleared. Using a barrier method, such as an external condom, can also reduce the risk of passing the fungus during an active infection.