Key takeaways
- Male yeast infections, caused by an overgrowth of Candida fungus, can affect the penis and scrotum and may cause redness, itching, irritation, and white discharge.
- Antifungal medications like clotrimazole or miconazole — available over the counter or by prescription — are the fastest and most effective way to treat male yeast infections, which typically clear within 7 to 14 days.
- Managing type 2 diabetes, maintaining good hygiene, keeping the genital area clean and dry, and using barrier methods during sex can help prevent yeast infections.
Yeast infections, also known as candidiasis or thrush, develop when there’s an overgrowth of the naturally occurring fungus Candida in the body. Although vaginal yeast infections are more common, candidiasis can also affect the penis and scrotum.
Yeast infections may clear up on their own, although this is rare, so the fastest way to get rid of them is to seek medical treatment.
Over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription-strength antifungals can help treat symptoms of a yeast infection in males. A yeast infection can cause complications without proper treatment, so it is important to talk with a doctor or other healthcare professional if you have symptoms.
| Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article uses the term “male” when discussing people assigned male at birth who have penises and scrotums to reflect language that appears in source materials. While gender is solely about how you identify yourself, independent of your physical body, you may need to consider how your personal circumstances will affect diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment. |
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Treatments for yeast infections in males
It is important to see a physician or other healthcare professional for a physical examination of the affected area and to discuss any symptoms you’re experiencing. From there, the clinician can recommend effective treatment to get rid of your condition as quickly as possible.
Treatment for a yeast infection on the penis and scrotum may include prescription antifungals, OTC antifungal creams, or a combination of the two.
Antifungal medications for male yeast infection include:
- clotrimazole (Lotrimin), in both OTC and prescription-strength
- miconazole (Micatin), in both OTC and prescription-strength
- nystatin, available only by prescription
- ciclopirox (Loprox), available only by prescription
- econazole nitrate, available only by prescription
Early and proper treatment of a yeast infection can prevent complications, including balanitis, which is inflammation in the head of the penis.
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Online care for male yeast infections
Yeast infections can be uncomfortable, and some people may find them embarrassing to talk about. But medical treatment is the only sure way to get rid of a yeast infection quickly.
Online care services, including Optum Perks Online Care, may make getting treatment easier. With these services, you can submit an online form answering a few questions about your symptoms, and a US-licensed healthcare professional will respond soon after to prescribe a treatment plan.
How long does a yeast infection usually last?
The duration of a yeast infection in males depends on when it’s detected and how early it’s treated. If treated early and properly, a male yeast infection can last from 7 to 14 days.
What are the symptoms of a yeast infection in males?
Yeast infection symptoms on the penis and scrotum are similar to those of vaginal yeast infections and include:
- reddish rash in the penis, scrotum, or both
- irritation in the penis, scrotum, or both
- itchiness in the area
- burning sensation when peeing
- swelling and soreness in the penis
- cracks in the foreskin
- white discharge from under the foreskin and skin folds
- white, shiny patches on the tip of the penis
Some of these symptoms are associated with other conditions as well, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It’s important to talk with a doctor or other healthcare professional to get an accurate diagnosis and start an effective treatment.
If you have a yeast infection four or more times in a year, this is classified as recurring thrush. Talk with a healthcare professional if you have frequent yeast infections so they can diagnose the cause and determine the best treatment course for you.
Preventing male yeast infection
A primary risk factor for yeast infection is type 2 diabetes. A 2021 paper discusses how people with type 2 diabetes have a higher likelihood of developing candidiasis than those without diabetes.
As a result, taking steps to prevent or manage diabetes is key to lowering your risk of yeast infection.
Other prevention steps you can take include:
- maintaining a healthy weight
- practicing good hygiene habits and keeping the genital area clean and dry
- keeping your immune system strong by eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly
- using a barrier method, such as an external condom, when having sex
- refraining from sex if you have symptoms of an infection or if your partner shows symptoms of an infection
In some cases of recurrent male yeast infections, healthcare professionals may recommend a circumcision.
What’s next?
Use this checklist to decide whether to try OTC treatments or see a doctor:
When to try OTC treatments:
- you have mild, temporary symptoms
- you have no underlying health conditions
- symptoms improve quickly
- you notice no severe side effects
When to see a doctor:
- your symptoms persist or worsen
- you have severe or unusual symptoms
- you have underlying health conditions
- you show signs of an allergic reaction
- you’re experiencing side effects of OTC treatments
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