Fungal balanitis

Fungal balanitis, also known as candida balanitis is a common condition that causes inflammation of the head of the penis. It is more common in uncircumcised men, affecting around 1 in 30 uncircumcised males at some point in their lives.

It’s important to note that balanitis is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI). While the actual condition cannot be passed on from one person to another, it is possible to transfer the organisms that cause balanitis.

Fungal balanitis is a penile yeast infection caused by the overgrowth of the yeast-like fungi, Candida albicans.

Our skin naturally has different types of yeast that live on it, including Candida. Normally, this doesn't cause any problems however, if there's an overgrowth of Candida, it can cause a rash or skin infection.

Balanitis is common in uncircumcised males due to the build-up of smegma beneath the foreskin. Smegma is a whitish substance which helps to lubricate the foreskin.

Poor hygiene and smegma buildup create a warm, moist environment for Candida to grow and thrive. This can lead to the infection.

Bacterial balanitis and fungal balanitis are both infections that affect the male genitalia. Fungi are the most common overall cause of balanitis, followed closely by bacteria.

Here are the main differences between bacterial and fungal balanitis:

Overall, while both bacterial and fungal balanitis can cause similar symptoms, they have different causes and require specific treatments.

This condition most commonly occurs in uncircumcised people. Other risk factors may include:

• The presence of foreskin
• Poor hygiene
• Harsh soaps or lotions
• STIs
• Skin irritation or damaged skin
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Reactive arthritis
• Using condom catheters

Can someone who has been circumcised get balanitis?

Yes, balanitis can affect both circumcised and uncircumcised men. While men who are circumcised have a 68% lower prevalence of balanitis, they can still contract this condition.

Some yeast infection symptoms in males may include pain, swelling and redness in the groin area.

Other symptoms of a yeast infection include:

• Inflammation, itching and irritation around the head of the penis and under the foreskin
• Tight, shiny, red skin on the head of the penis
• Sores on the head of the penis
• Soreness and discomfort
• A tight foreskin and difficulty pulling this back
• Thick, white discharge under the foreskin
• An unpleasant smell
• Difficulty pulling back your foreskin
• Shiny sores or blisters on your penis
• Painful sensation when peeing

Your healthcare provider may be able to diagnose this condition by looking at your penis and foreskin. Signs such as a red rash, inflammation and white cottage cheese-like discharge may indicate a fungal infection.

Your doctor may also collect a sample of the skin for testing. This is done by gently scraping off some of the skin from the infected area. This will be sent to a lab to identify the cause.

The main treatment for confirmed fungal balanitis is topical Canesten (clotrimazole 1%). This is applied to the affected area 2 to 3 times daily for at least two weeks.

Doctors may prescribe an oral antifungal, such as Fluconazole 150mg for severe symptoms. This capsule is taken as a single dose.

If there is a lot of swelling and pain, your doctor may prescribe a corticosteroid cream or ointment to help. It is usually used in addition to an antifungal treatment. Apply this as directed and contact your doctor if you have any concerns or side effects.

Practising good hygiene may help to prevent balanitis. Here are some things you can do to help:

• Gently pull back your foreskin and wash the area with warm water to prevent a build-up of smegma
• Dry the area after washing
• Avoid irritants (such as strong shower gels)
• Wear loose-fitting clothing
• Choose condoms for sensitive skin
• Wash your hands before peeing or touching your penis

Tips to prevent balanitis

Avoid irritants

Choose condoms for sensitive skin

Wear loose fitting clothing

Wash the area with warm water

Dry the area after washing

Wash your hands before and after touching the area

If you think you may have fungal balanitis, you can purchase treatment online here at euroClinix.

First, you will need to complete an online consultation with one of our doctors. They will assess your symptoms to see what treatment is suitable for you. If they approve, your treatment will be sent to your chosen address.