Women experience yeast infection symptoms more often than men. The most common type of yeast infection is candidiasis. Candida is a common organism on our bodies that is usually harmless but occasionally causes infection.
Candida as the cause of yeast infection symptoms
Candida is a type of fungus that occurs naturally in the body, particularly in warm, moist areas, such as inside the mouth, under the armpits and around the genitals. Under normal conditions it does not usually cause problems because it is kept under control by the immune system and other microorganisms in or on the body.
Yeast infection symptoms in women
Most of the time yeast infection in women occurs in the vagina. This infection is also called thrush or candidiasis.
Yeast infection symptoms in women may include:
- itching, burning, or swelling in and around vagina
- pain or discomfort in the vagina during sex
- a burning feeling when urinating (peeing)
- vaginal discharge that often looks like cottage cheese
Yeast infection symptoms in men
Genital yeast infection in men is not as common as it is in women. When yeast infection occurs in men, the symptoms may include:
- red skin, swelling, irritation, soreness and itchiness around the head of the penis.
- difficult pulling back the foreskin and thick, lumpy discharge under the foreskin, producing an unpleasant odor. This is a problem in men who are not cut.
- pain when passing urine and during sex.
While the symptoms discussed above suggest yeast infection, they can also be caused by other conditions such sexually transmitted diseases (STD). If you experience symptoms similar to those mentioned above it’s recommended you visit your doctor immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Yeast infection treatment
In many cases, you can safely treat yeast infection with over-the-counter medication. However, self-treatment for yeast infection symptoms is not recommended if you are not sure whether your symptoms are due to yeast infection or sexually transmitted diseases. Although yeast infection can be spread through sexual intercourse, it is not considered an STD. We recommend you seek medical help for proper diagnosis and treatment.