Yeast infection facts

What is a yeast infection

A yeast infection is caused by an overgrowth of a common fungus, which causes itching and discharge from the vagina. Sometimes it can cause a skin rash on the penis.

A yeast infection is also called monilia, candida, or yeast vaginitis.

A yeast infection is not considered an STI (sexually transmitted infection).

What causes a yeast infection

Yeast is normally found in small amounts in the vagina. Sometimes it grows too much and can cause problems.

These can also cause a yeast infection:

• Diabetes
• Pregnancy
• Antibiotic medicines
• Sometimes birth control pills can cause yeast to overgrow.
• Untreated HIV infection

Yeast infections do not usually spread from one person to another. Very occasionally people with vaginal yeast infections will have sex partners who get redness or irritation of the penis.

Symptoms of a yeast infection

Vaginal infections:

• White, “cottage cheese” discharge from the vagina.
• Severe itching around the vagina and vulva.
• Burning sensation with sex or with urination.

Penile infections:

• More common in uncircumcised people
• Small dots and/or redness on the head of the penis
• Itching/burning sensation under the foreskin

How to avoid getting a yeast infection

• Avoid tight pants, girdles, nylon underwear, tights or pantyhose with a nylon crotch, and spandex pants. Sleep in loose, breathable clothing.
• Use water-based lubricant with vaginal sex to avoid irritation to the vagina, especially when using condoms.
• Use plain lubricated latex condoms.

If you think you have a yeast infection but have not seen a doctor yet

• Use only warm or cool water for washing your genitals (no soap, hot water or washcloth).
• Avoid scratching. Use cold water on a cloth if itching is severe.
• If this is your first time with this problem, get a check-up because it could be another type of infection.
• Recurrent herpes is often mistaken for a yeast infection. Let your clinician check it out.

How to treat a yeast infection

You can buy these medicines at drugstores without a prescription:

• Vaginal infections: Anti-fungal medication to apply inside the vagina in cream, tablet or suppository form. One-day treatments can be irritating to the vagina. 3 or 7-day treatment options may be less irritating.
• Penile infections: Any cream for jock itch or athlete’s foot can be used.

Do not use these medicines internally just before you come in for an exam. A clinician may not be able to detect yeast once medicine has been placed in the vagina. Your clinician may prescribe other medicines available only with a prescription.

This information is provided by San Francisco City Clinic.

Visit our homepage at sf.gov/cityclinic.

Information last revised January 2024