The Link Between Semen And Yeast Infection
There is no direct link between yeast infections and semen. Semen can possibly harbor fungi. If such fungi affect your system, you may get infected. This is common among men and women. Treatment is needed to rid of infections. If you force your partner to have sex during this time, it is likely to spread to partner(s).
Yeast infections are of two types namely male and female yeast infections. In males, yeast infections often affect your scrotum or penis. Among females, yeast infections are quite common; having sex with a partner – while being infected - heightens underlying risks.
Can Semen Cause Yeast Infection?
Can Semen Cause Yeast Infection? No, semen does not cause yeast infections. However, having sex when you are infected can spread infections. Moreover, other sexual and health factors can cause yeast infection.
Most women may experience yeast infections at least once during their lifetime. It is the most common condition fungi can trigger. However, it is easily treatable with medications. Most drugs are available at your local drug store, without a prescription.
What Causes Yeast Infection?
Yeast infections (candidiasis) occur when a fungus called Candida albicans overgrows. This overgrowth leads to a potential imbalance in your body's natural balance. Yeast infection is the result of yeast on your mucous membranes. Multiple factors – listed below are a few – contribute to its onset:
- Antibiotic use: Antibiotics can kill-off beneficial bacteria in your body
- Pregnancy: Hormonal imbalance or changes during pregnancy
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes can increase your sugar levels
- Weakened immune system: Serious health conditions like cancer, HIV, or use of certain medications can weaken your immune system
- Hormonal changes: If you consume birth control pills or undergo hormone therapy, it can increase your estrogen levels
- Other factors: Lack of sleep, stress, and even sitting for too long in a wet bathing suit.
Can You Have Sex With A Yeast Infection?
Health experts will recommend you to refrain from having sex with yeast infection(s). It can cause pain and irritation, and can easily spread to your partner.
- Friction caused during your sexual activity can worsen the feeling of itchiness
- Engaging in sexual activity can badly affect the healing process and prolong the duration of your symptoms
- Despite not being a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI), it is likely you pass the infection to your partner
- Creams used for topical yeast infection treatments can weaken the purpose of condoms
If you choose to have sex, ensure to inform your sexual partner; use barriers like dental dams or condoms.
Can You Get A Yeast Infection From Sex?
It is quite likely that you pass on an infection to your partner or vice versa. However, these are not STIs. It is the fungus that transmits the infection through contact.
A safe bet is to inform your sexual partner of your condition. This helps you find alternative ways like improving safety during sex. However, medical experts do not recommend sexual intercourses during this period. They suggest having sex only after infections are completely cured.
Duration To Wait For Sex After Yeast Infection Treatment
You can wait until your infection is cured completely. This helps you prevent further complications. Having sex while you are infected can:
- Worsen your symptoms (unusual discharges, burning, or itching)
- Prolong the treatment-time and infection-phase
- Exchange and spread the infection between you and your partner
How To Prevent Yeast Infection After Sex?
To prevent yeast infections after sex, you can:
- Use barrier methods like dental dams and condoms
- Avoid wet clothes, and wear clothing that breathe
- Avoid scented products like feminine-hygiene sprays; these irritate your vagina
- Focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle
- Wash genitals each time after sex
- Ensure optimal levels of blood sugars
- Avoid alcohol and sugary foods
You Can Consult With Your Caregiver On Treatment Options.
- Antifungal medications mostly help cure such infections
- Oral medications help clear symptoms within a day or two after taking your medications
- Topical medications can be for a week and not longer
For over 10 years, I’ve been immersed in the field of pharmaceutical research, focusing on male sexual health. My work involves comprehensive studies of erectile dysfunction medications, addressing their therapeutic effectiveness and long-term benefits.