How To Avoid Male Genital Thrush
Male yeast infections result from an overgrowth of the Candida yeast in the genital area. The infection causes balanitis, or inflammation of the penis. Visible signs include a red, patchy or spotty rash on the glans of the penis. The rash tends to be extremely itchy and can be scaly. Some men experience pain while passing urine. The infection can interfere with sex and can is often associated with a ‘yeasty’ discharge and smegma under the foreskin of uncircumsized men.
Although most incidences of the disease can be treated with a topical antifungal cream, it’s far better to avoid the infection in the first place. Here are 5 tips for prevention courtesy of Fungus Facts.
1) Top of the list is the need for good hygiene. Wash your penis regularly and ensure that you dry properly. Avoid using perfumed shower gels or soaps as these can cause irritation.
2) Wear loose fitting clothing that allows air to flow around your genitals. Candida yeasts (which are a type of fungus) flourish in airless, moist and dark environments so wearing tight fitting synthetic underwear for a long period of time is not a good idea, especially in warm environments or while exercising.
3) Candida occurs naturally in the body but is normally kept from overgrowing into an outbreak by ‘good’ bacteria and other healthy flora in our bodies. Prolonged use of antibiotics is often tied to a thrush outbreak. So try to avoid excessive antibiotic use, unless this is a medical necessity of course.
4) Always wear a condom if your partner has thrush. While thrush is not categorized as a sexually transmitted disease (celibate people can have thrush) it can be passed through sex with an infected partner.
5) Candida yeast infections are often associated with poor diets that are high in sugar (yeasts thrive on sugar). Following a yeast free diet plan is a good precaution. As well as focusing on eating well, try and make time for exercise.