Dr Maxwell Adeyemi

Yeast infection in men

Vaginal yeast infections are more common in women but it is possible for men to get yeast infections, too. When it affects the penis, this is known as a penile yeast infection. All bodies males and females have candida, not just the female body. When there's an overgrowth of this fungus, it can lead to a yeast infection. The groin area is especially prone to candida overgrowth because of skin folds and moisture.

Penile yeast infections are most commonly caused by having unprotected vaginal intercourse with a woman who has the infection.

The symptoms of a yeast infection in men may not be as prominent, though you might see redness and white patches along the penis as well as burning and itchy sensations.

Yeast infection in women

It's estimated that up to 75 out of 100 women will get a vaginal yeast infection at least once in their lifetime. Despite their prevalence, it's important to treat vaginal yeast infections early.

Recurring yeast infections are common, especially if you are pregnant, have diabetes, or have a weakened immune system.

Yeast infection in babies

While yeast infections are commonly associated with vaginal infections, babies can also get them. The most common yeast infection in a baby is a diaper rash. However, not all diaper rashes are the result yeast overgrowth. One can tell if the condition is more than just a diaper rash if baby's skin is extremely red and has spots in the diaper/groin area, despite using diaper rash cream. Yeast infections may also be presented in other folds of the skin, such as under the armpits.

A topical antifungal cream is generally used to treat yeast infections of the skin. An oral medication may be needed if the baby has oral thrush (yeast infection of the mouth).

While yeast infections in babies are usually harmless, they can lead to more serious infections when left untreated.

Yeast infection in pregnancy

Yeast infections are common during pregnancy because of hormone fluctuations.

A yeast infection during pregnancy isn't always treated in the same way as non-pregnant women are treated. The use of oral antifungal medications is not advisable during pregnancy owing to possible birth defects. Topical antifungals may be safe to use during pregnancy. While yeast infections won't hurt your baby, it's possible to pass the candida fungus to them during delivery. This can lead to diaper rash and oral thrush in your baby.

Yeast infection and urinary-tract infection

Another common infection in women is a urinary-tract infection. While it's possible to have one or the other, or even both infections at the same time, urinary-tract infection and yeast infections are two different conditions. Urinary-tract infection is a bacterial infection that affects the urinary system. This complex system includes your urethra, as well as your bladder