Is there a specific yeast infection treatment for men?

The short answer is no, there are no yeast infection treatments specifically designed for men. However, there are treatments targetted at women specifically, so it's important you get the right one. Here we'll look at different treatment options for male yeast infections, but first, here are some quick facts about yeast infections that you should know:

• Yeast infection in men is called Candida Balanitis 
• It is caused by a fungus called Candida
• Candida can be found on our skin normally. Moist surfaces can help Candida overgrow, and this overgrowth causes symptoms to manifest 
• The symptoms present as an itchy rash, red skin, swelling and irritation around the head of the penis. There may also be lumps under the skin, and urination and sexual intercourse become painful 
• Some men are at a higher risk of having a yeast infection. Risk factors include the use of antibiotics and corticosteroids, a compromised immune system, diabetes, poor hygiene and overuse of unnecessary hygiene products
• A yeast infection is not considered a form of sexually transmitted infection (STI).  Transmission of candida fungus can occur during vaginal intercourse however
• Treatment options for Candida Balanitis include oral and topical antifungals 
• Ensuring and practicing good hygiene can prevent this infection

Medical Treatments 

Over-the-counter reatment options for yeast infections can be found in most pharmacies.  Treatments include topical imidazoles such as clotrimazole, ketoconazole and miconazole. They work by breaking down the walls of the fungal cells. 

As with any medication, these topical treatments can cause some side effects. The most common side effect is a burning sensation after application, however, this is usually mild in nature. If the burning is severe and you develop serious skin irritation, stop using the cream and contact your doctor. 

Home remedies

In addition to over-the-counter treatment options, there are a variety of home remedies that can be effective. 

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has been found to have a variety of healing properties including antibacterial, antiprotozoal, antifungal and antiviral properties. This antifungal property will help combat yeast infections when applied to the head and surrounding area of the penis. When using tea tree oil, it is important to check the strength of the tea tree oil. If buying pure tea tree oil, make sure to dilute it with some olive oil to ensure it is at an appropriate strength for skin application. 

Yogurt

Yogurt is a known natural probiotic. Increasing your intake of yogurt will have positive effects on your health. It promotes positive bacterial growth which in turn helps fight infections in the body such as Candida. Alternatively, yogurt can be applied directly to the penis, but make sure you are using yogurt that contains live bacteria. 

Garlic

Garlic is also a natural ingredient with antifungal and antibacterial properties. Integrating garlic into your diet has many positive health benefits. A study published in 2010, comparing a common medical treatment for Candida Balanitis (clotrimazole) to a cream containing garlic and thyme, found that the cream provided the same healing benefits as clotrimazole while having less side effects.  

Apple Cider Vinegar 

Apple cider vinegar has specific antifungal properties against Candida, and can also be applied directly to the affected area. Bear in mind that apple cider vinegar has a strong vinegary smell and dilute the apple cider vinegar with some water before application.

Coconut Oil 

Possessing a variety of health benefits, coconut oil also has antimicrobial properties. Another study in 2007 found that coconut oil is active against Candida species when used at a 100% concentration. It can also relieve constipation, repair hair and moisturize skin.

Tips to prevent a yeast infection

Do:

• Wear loose-fitting clothes
• Ensure to dry yourself properly
• Use water to wash your private areas instead of soap
• Keep your private areas clean 

Don't:

• Use soaps to wash your private areas
• Do not use deodorants on your private areas
• Avoid tight clothing
• Refrain from having sex until the infection has cleared

 

References

• "Top 5 Best Male Yeast Infection Home Remedies", 2020 [accessed 3 April 2020].
• "Thrush in men and women", 2020 https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/thrush-in-men-and-women/#self-care [accessed 3 April 2020].
• Ogbolu, D, A Oni, O Daini, & A Oloko, "In VitroAntimicrobial Properties of Coconut Oil on CandidaSpecies in Ibadan, Nigeria.". in Journal of Medicinal Food, 10, 2007, 384-387.
• Bahadoran P, e, "Investigating the therapeutic effect of vaginal cream containing garlic and thyme compared to clotrimazole cream for the treatment of mycotic vagin... - PubMed - NCBI.". in Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, 2020 [accessed 3 April 2020].
• "Thrush in men symptoms and treatments", 2020 [accessed 3 April 2020].