Vaginal fungal infections are common in women and are mostly recurring which cause itching and irritation. These infections are caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans, a type of fungus which is normally present in the vagina in smaller amounts. Certain factors can lead to its overgrowth paving the way for infection.
Although, a common question arising amongst men is can they also get infected when involved in sexual intercourse with a female partner who has fungal infection?
Dr Theertha Shetty, Consultant at Shetty’s Endoscopic Surgical Centre and Kokan Nursing Home Clinical Associate, Masrani Hospital for Women, answered this question through an Instagram reel. In the reel, she said yes, a man can get infected with fungal infection through intercourse with a female partner with the fungal infection.
To understand more about fungal infection in men, the OnlyMyHealth team interacted with Dr Shetty, who is famously known as @gyneverse on Instagram. Here’s the video made by Dr Shetty, have a look.
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How Can A Male Get Infected From Female Partner
Answering this question Dr Shetty said, “If the male has had unprotected intercourse with their female partner with fungal infection, he is likely to get infected from it.” While it is not common in men but in rare cases, men can transmit fungal infection from a female partner.
Symptoms
Following can be the symptoms of fungal infection in men
- Itching, burning and irritation around the head of the penis and even under the foreskin
- White discharge
- Red spots
Sometimes the infection in men can be asymptomatic for which Dr Shetty said, “If your partner has an infection, it’s advisable you see a doctor, get yourself examined and treated if required.”
Dr Shetty further said, “The infection in men may not be as severe as in women since the vagina keeps producing discharge which makes the region moist and any changes in the pH can trigger a fungal infection,” adding, “But if this infection is left untreated, it can lead to recurrent infections for you and your partner.”
Measures To Prevent Fungal Infection
Dr Shetty listed down the preventive measures one must follow to keep the infection away from you and your partner.
- Follow good intimate hygiene (always keep the area dry).
- Wear loose clothing and comfortable cotton underwear (boxers are preferable).
- Avoid using skin products or soaps down there that may cause skin irritation. Use plain water to clean your genitals.
- Get your blood sugars checked and under control if you are diabetic or pre-diabetic.
- Follow good intimate hygiene (always keep the area dry).
Bottomline
Fungal infection may always not be as serious but if not treated on time, they can occur again and again and can infect both the partners. It is advisable for both you and your partner to get it checked if either of the two experience any symptoms. While the treatment is ongoing, unprotected intercourse is not advisable. Follow these simple measures and maintain your intimate health.