A man can potentially pass a yeast infection to a woman during sex.
This is more common in men who areuncircumcisedand have an inflammatory penile condition calledbalantitis.
It is also possible, though uncommon, for a woman to pass a yeast infection to a man.
Verywell / Laura Porter
What Causes a Yeast Infection?
Candidais a naturally occurring fungus found in small amounts on the skin and in your mouth or intestines.
It is usually well controlled by theimmune system, which keeps the fungus suppressed to harmless levels.
Normal concentrations ofCandidapromote gut health, nutrient absorption, and normal digestion.
The overgrowth may be due to conditions that temporarily or chronically weaken the immune system.
Common causes include:
Of the almost 200 species ofCandida,Candida albicansis by far the most common.
Even so, it can sometimes be passed from one person to another during sex.
This is especially true for a man with an active yeast infection who has vaginal intercourse with a woman.
This may explain why many women complain their husbands keep giving them yeast infections.
Can a Man Get a Yeast Infection From a Woman?
Over 95% of penile yeast infections occur in uncircumcised males, withCandidaaccounting for over half of all cases.
Poor hygiene plays a major role in the infection, particularly in men with candidal balanitis.
While uncommon, it is theoretically possible to get a yeast infection from a female partner during vaginal sex.
The risk is also higher among married couples and steady sexual partners.
2021;7(2):79. doi:10.3390/jof7020079
National Organization for Rare Disorders.Candidiasis.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Candidiasis.
Morris BJ, Krieger JN.Penile inflammatory skin disorders and the preventive role of circumcision.Int J Prev Med.
