Can A Man Contract Thrush from An Infected Partner?
29-03-2022 | Posted By: Admin | 2266 View(s)
Thrush is a fungal or yeast infection caused by a germ called Candida. It can develop in the mouth, throat, skin, and specifically on the genitals. Although genital thrush or yeast infection is more common in women, it can also occur in men.
The yeast infection is usually harmless, its symptoms can make one uncomfortable. It is usually treatable with antifungal medication that kills or prevents the growth of fungi.
Can Thrush Be Transmitted Sexually?
Male thrush affecting the genitals is called Candida balanitis, that is, the inflammation of the tip (glans) of the penis. It may cause pain and discomfort while having sex, and thus affect the sexual health of a man.
Although thrush is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), its symptoms can be triggered by sexual activity. It is uncommon for thrush to be passed on during sex. If an infected woman has sex, her partner may develop thrush symptoms post sex as an allergic hypersensitive response to the woman’s candida.
It is important to note that if a man’s immune system is strong, he may not even have a problem even after being exposed to the yeast infection.
Symptoms Of Thrush
It is common to have thrush and not show any symptoms. However, some of the male thrush symptoms are:
1.Redness at the site of infection, often at the head of the penis
2.Pain when passing urine
3.Swelling at the tip of the penis
4.Inflammation of glans penis
5.A discharge from the end of the penis
Causes Of Thrush
Most male yeast infections are caused by the fungus Candida albicans. Although Candida albicans is a natural inhabitant of the human body, a warm and moist environment can lead the fungus to overgrow in a harmful way.
Factors that increase the chances of thrush include:
1.Uncontrolled diabetes
2.A course of antibiotics
3.Conditions such as AIDS or medicines
4.Skin conditions wherein the skin are cracked or broken
5.Poor hygiene
Treatment Options for Thrush
Antifungals are the major treatment option to cure thrush. Topical creams like Clotrimazole, Miconazole, and Econazole are commonly used to treat penile yeast infections. The cream is applied to the affected area on the penis or foreskin.
If these medications fail to resolve the problem, oral antifungal medication like Fluconazole may be prescribed. These can be bought at medical stores or online pharmacies, although it is vital to seek medical advice from a trusted general physician or a local sexual health clinic for any unbearable pain, itching, or soreness.
It is especially important to visit the clinic if you experience recurring thrush symptoms. Visiting a doctor can also be useful to get checked and rule out the possibility of any other harmful infections or STDs.
Interestingly, the presence of candida spores is not problematic. It is only when our body gives out an aggressive response to the invasion of the yeast inside the skin, the symptoms arise and makes one feel uncomfortable.
Simple Tips to Getting Rid of Thrush
While the medication will do the job of reducing the symptoms of thrush, there are a few things you can follow to crush the thrush for good!
Thrush symptoms and infection can be triggered by sex and may cause further discomfort. Therefore, doctors usually recommend avoiding sex until the infection has cleared up or at least using protection. This might also negate any chances of the infection spreading to your partner.
Make sure you follow good hygiene practices to help prevent the recurrence of thrush. This includes washing the penis gently with warm, running water and then drying it completely. Refraining from the usage of perfumed shower gels or soaps as it may irritate the affected area on the penis. Wearing loose fit, cotton underpants will help keep the genital area dry and cool.
Often thrush is asymptomatic or occurs with mild symptoms, and OTC medication can relieve them. However, if symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult a doctor and get the right treatment in time.
Author Bio: Krishma Patel is the Co-founder and the Superintendent Pharmacist at MedsNow, an online pharmacy in the UK that provides health and wellness products and treatments along with free online consultations. She is passionate about showcasing the integral function community pharmacies can play in supporting the healthcare system and the NHS by providing patients with high quality, safe and discreet access to healthcare at their convenience. Along with being the co-founder of MedsNow, Krishma is also the Director and the Superintendent Pharmacist of Enimed Ltd., an independent pharmacy group comprising 32 branches.
