Candida

How do you get candidiasis?

There are yeasts on your penis. That’s normal. Candida is also a type of yeast. Sometimes the presence of yeasts gets out of balance. For example, there could be too much of certain yeasts on your penis. This can cause candidiasis.

Most of the time it’s not clear why candidiasis is giving you symptoms. But there are things that increase your chances of infection. For example:

• Washing your penis with soap
• Applying lotions or other ointments on your penis. For example during sex.
• Using certain medications, like antibiotics

What are the symptoms of candidiasis?

Mostly, candidiasis does not cause symptoms. Sometimes it does, for example if your resistance is lowered by stress. 

Symptoms you could have:

• Red skin
• Itchiness 
• Irritation
• Pain while peeing
• Flaky skin
• Red bumps or patches
• White scales you can scrape off

Other symptoms?

Do you have other symptoms? They could be caused by something else. So it’s important to go to your GP or to the GGD. Don’t wait too long and make an appointment.

Check out the symptoms of other STDs

Treating candidiasis

Candidiasis often heals on its own. So you don’t have to go to your GP. Is it bothering you? Then you can go to your GP. They will examine your penis to determine if your symptoms are connected to candidiasis. If so, you can get medication for it.

Recurring symptoms?

Do you have these symptoms often? Then you can also buy a candidiasis treatment at the pharmacy. Are you not sure about your symptoms being caused by candidiasis? Then it’s better to go to your GP. This way you can avoid using the wrong medication, or medication you don’t need.

To have sex, wait until the major symptoms have passed. This will make your recovery quicker.

Ointment for your penis

The medication you will get is often a lotion that you can apply on your penis yourself. Keep in mind that condoms are less effective during an ointment treatment. Do you use condoms during sex? Then wait to have sex until you are done with the treatment.

You don’t have to inform your sex partners if you have candidiasis, because it’s not an STD.

Preventing candidiasis

It’s better not to disrupt the healthy bacteria and yeasts that live on your penis. To do so:

• Only use water to wash your penis. Is your penis showing symptoms? Do not wash it more often or more thoroughly than normally
• Do not use soap, oil, or lotions to wash your penis