SMSNA receives and publishes “guest editorials” periodically. The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher specializing in women’s health, wellness and healthy living. She is its Founder and Editor-in-Chief Body+Mind Magazine.
A yeast infection is one of the worst ways to ruin a good time in bed. However, some question whether the infection came from sex in the first place.
There are many questions surrounding yeast infections. For example, can you get a yeast infection after sex? Is it the same as a sexually transmitted disease? Who is prone to this condition? Here’s everything you need to know about yeast infections and sex, and how to prevent them.
Will you get a yeast infection after sex?
Contrary to belief, sex does not cause yeast infections, nor is it a sexually transmitted disease (STD). However, you can still get one after sex via transmission. Vaginal yeast infections occur through Candida – a natural yeast fungus found throughout the body, including the vagina and mouth.
So, if sex doesn’t cause yeast infections, what does? A yeast infection means that vaginal Candida has proliferated. Common reasons for this include:
- Weakened immunity
- Cancer treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy
- Chronic conditions such as HIV/AIDS
- Antibiotics that affect the body’s good vaginal bacteria while treating other infections
- Pregnancy, menstruation and hormonal changes that disrupt the balance of vaginal bacteria
- High blood sugar and uncontrolled diabetes
- Using scented tampons and pads
- Sits in wet or sweaty clothes
Can you have sex with a yeast infection?
Having sex with a yeast infection is uncomfortable and can make your symptoms worse. For example, friction could irritate the skin around the vulva. Likewise, stimulation increases wetness and itching.
You can also pass the infection on to your partner through either penetration or oral sex, delaying the healing process. The US Department of Health and Human Services says that 15% of men develop a rash on their penis after having sex with a woman who has a yeast infection. Therefore, doctors recommend that you wait until the symptoms subside and you feel fully recovered.
Vaginal yeast infection symptoms
Most female patients complain of intense itching in and around the vagina when they have a yeast infection. The following are the most common symptoms:
- Burning sensation when urinating
- Painful contact
- Thick, white vaginal discharge
- Swelling and redness around the vulva and vagina
Although less common, men can also experience genital yeast infections after sex, especially if they are uncircumcised. Symptoms usually include pain and swelling around the groin with red patches. Others may feel burning around the foreskin and head of the penis.
When to see a doctor
If this is your first experience with a Candida infection or you’ve recently had sex with a new partner, call your doctor. Many times, the symptoms overlap with those of STDs.
Scheduling an appointment with your primary care physician is just as important if you are prone to chronic yeast outbreaks. They record your medical history and can help you better control incidents. Your doctor may also test you for diabetes.
If you are not positive that it is a yeast infection, avoid taking over-the-counter medications. Your doctor should prescribe the appropriate antifungal treatment to resolve your condition. Most medications are oral or topical, which you apply directly to the vaginal area with an applicator. Regardless, always follow your doctor’s instructions to make sure the infection clears up completely.
How to prevent yeast infections
No one wants the discomfort of genital infections or giving their partner a yeast infection after sex. Therefore, practicing good hygiene is critical. Use the following tips to prevent yeast infections:
- Be wise about the underwear you wear – a breathable cotton fabric is best for wicking away moisture around the vagina.
- Take probiotics to promote vaginal health and proper pH.
- Reduce friction in areas prone to chafing and dry skin.
- Always change out of wet and sweaty clothes.
Also, brush your teeth and use mouthwash after oral sex to eliminate bacteria. The spread of a Candida from the vagina to the mouth can lead to thrush. Oral thrush usually includes pain and cracking around the mouth, red patches on your throat, and sensitivity to certain foods.
Stop yeast infections in their tracks
Avoiding sex until you’ve dealt with an infection is vital to healing and protecting your partner. Remember – the frequency, duration and severity of yeast infections are within your control. Take care of your vagina for safer, more comfortable sex.
Bibliographical references:
Burnett, T. (2022, February 8). Sex during a vaginal infection: Is it harmful? Mayo Clinic.
Cleveland Clinic. (2022, September 9). Vyeast infection. Cleveland Clinic.
First Document Blog. (n). What is a Primary Care Specialist? First Documents.
John Hopkins Medicine. (n). Fungal infection. John Hopkins Medicine.
Office on Women’s Health (2021, February 22). Vaginal yeast infections. US Department of Health and Human Services.
US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, February 25). Candida infections of the mouth, throat and esophagus. US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Watson, K., & Brito, J. (2023, March 30). Can you have sex with a vaginal yeast infection? Healthline.
