What Is a Yeast Infection? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

What Causes An Itchy Penis?

Sometimes, the penis can become itchy. This may occur alone or with other symptoms, such as inflammation, bumps, or discharge. Possible causes include an infection, psoriasis, and balanitis.

There are a few reasons the penis may become itchy, and treatment may be necessary depending on the cause of the itch.

This article looks at possible causes of an itchy penis, as well as some causes of pubic itching. It also explores some potential home remedies, medical treatments, and tips to prevent an itchy penis, as well as when to see a doctor.

An itchy penis can be uncomfortable. Although it may be a symptom of a sexually transmitted infection (STI), there are other potential causes of an itchy penis.

Males may experience itchiness all over the penis. In other cases, the itchiness may be localized on the main part of the penis (the shaft) or on the glans penis (the penis tip).

Some causes of an itchy penis may include:

Candidiasis

Candidiasis, or thrush, is a fungal infection that can inflame the penis tip and cause itching. In some instances, a blotchy rash or thick white discharge may accompany the itching.

Genital warts

Genital warts is an STI that can appear on the shaft and tip. They appear as growths or lumps and may cause itching or bleeding.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a condition that can cause the skin to appear flushed, flaky, and scaly. Psoriasis on the penis may appear as flushed patches on the shaft and tip.

Scabies

Scabies occurs when mites burrow into the skin. This can affect the whole body, and it typically causes an extreme itching sensation.

Scabies may appear on the penis as small raised bumps on the shaft.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin comes into contact with something that causes it to have an allergic reaction. When it affects the penis, it may be due to using a latex condom.

Contact dermatitis may appear on the penis as raised, itchy bumps.

Genital herpes

Genital herpes is an STI wherein blisters may appear on the shaft of the penis, the anus, and the thighs. A symptom of genital herpes is itching.

Eczema

Eczema is a condition that causes the skin to become dry, inflamed, and itchy. Eczema on the penis may appear as dry skin on the shaft.

Balanitis

Balanitis is a form of skin irritation that specifically affects the tip of the penis.

Symptoms of balanitis include an itchy penis, a foul smell coming from the penis, swelling, and pain during urination.

Skin conditions such as psoriasis, scabies, eczema, and contact dermatitis may also affect the pubic area.

However, there may be other reasons the pubic area is itchy. These include:

Razor burn

When someone shaves their pubic hair, they may experience razor burn. This sometimes occurs when using an old razor, shaving without a lubricant such as shaving foam, or shaving the same area multiple times in quick succession.

This can cause a rash and small bumps to appear on the surface of the pubic area.

Pubic lice

Pubic lice can be another reason the pubic area is itchy. A person may catch pubic lice through close bodily contact with someone who has it.

Pubic lice may cause itching in the pubic area, leading to inflammation from scratching.

Ingrown hair

An ingrown hair may also cause itching. This occurs when the tip of a pubic hair folds back into the skin. Typically, this happens after shaving or waxing.

Learn more about potential causes of itchy pubic hair here.

If the penis starts feeling itchy, there are a few things the person can try at home to soothe the itch.

For example, they can:

Place a cool compress on the affected areas: This can help ease the irritation.

Refrain from sexual activity to avoid further irritation: This can also help prevent STIs.

Apply coconut oil to the area: This may improve the symptoms of skin conditions and relieve some of the itch.

Soak a cotton swab with alcohol and rub it on the affected area: Some anecdotal evidence suggests that this may help. The logic behind this is that alcohol can have antimicrobial effects that can help kill certain bacteria.

Bathe in bath salts: One study suggests that this can help relieve irritated skin and reduce inflammation.

Apply diluted apple cider vinegar to the area: Some anecdotal evidence suggests that this may be useful for stopping itching. However, in some cases, this may lead to further irritation.

If someone is experiencing penis itching, they should consider seeing a pharmacist. They may be able to provide recommendations for over-the-counter (OTC) treatments.

However, it is also important to determine the underlying cause of the itching, which will require a visit to the doctor.

Depending on the cause of the itchy penis, there are a few possible treatment options. These include:

Antifungal medication: If the cause is a fungal infection, a person will likely need antifungal medication to target the infection and reduce the symptoms.

Antihistamines: If the itch is due to an allergy, a person may need to take antihistamines.

Antibiotics: If the cause of the itching is bacterial, antibiotics will be necessary to kill the infection.

Steroid ointments: These help reduce inflammation and soothe the itch.

If a person wants to avoid penis itching, they may wish to consider preventive measures such as:

Avoiding certain products: Avoid soaps that contain perfume, as this may irritate the penis.

Maintaining good hygiene: Taking regular showers, thoroughly rinsing soap from the penis, and drying well afterward may help reduce penis itching.

Cleaning the foreskin: It is important that people with a foreskin clean under it. This can clear dirt and bacteria that may lead to irritation and itching.

Using barrier methods during sexual activity: Some causes of penis itching may come from STIs. One way to prevent these is to use barrier methods such as condoms during sex.

Undergoing circumcision: Certain causes of penis itching, such as balanitis, are due to the presence of the foreskin. One study suggests that undergoing circumcision could act as a preventive measure.

Change the shaving habits: To prevent itching that may occur due to shaving, it is important to use a lubricant. A person should also consider using a new razor and refrain from shaving an area multiple times in quick succession.

A person should consider seeing a doctor if the itching becomes severe, does not improve with OTC treatments, or appears alongside other symptoms, such as discharge, blisters, or pain.

The doctor will examine the penis to determine the cause of the itching. This may require a biopsy or an STI test. Depending on the cause of the itch, the doctor will then prescribe the appropriate treatment.

When itching and other symptoms are also present on other parts of the body, a person may need to see a dermatologist.

Here are some frequently asked questions.

What causes itching on a male's private part?

There are numerous possible causes of itching in the genital area. These include STIs, other infections, psoriasis, scabies, contact dermatitis, and balanitis. Treatment can depend on the cause.

What does balanitis look like?

Balanitis can cause symptoms such as itching, swelling, pain when urinating, and a foul smell. It affects the tip of the penis. As symptoms of balanitis can resemble some STIs and other conditions, it is best to seek an accurate diagnosis, particularly if symptoms do not improve.

People may experience itching on the shaft, tip, or all over the penis.

The itch may occur for several reasons, including STIs, bacterial infections, skin conditions, yeast infections, fungal infections, and shaving.

Home remedies may provide some relief from penis itching. Some OTC treatments may also help. If the itching becomes severe, does not improve, or appears with other symptoms, a person should consult a doctor.

To prevent an itchy penis, a person may want to consider taking precautions such as avoiding scented soap products, maintaining good hygiene, and avoiding sexual encounters with people who have an STI.

In more extreme circumstances, a person may want to consider undergoing circumcision.

11 Home Remedies For Vaginal Yeast Infections

1. Greek yogurt

Probiotics can be effective against Candida Albicans — and yogurt can be considered a probiotic because it contains live bacteria, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus. These bacteria help promote a healthy environment in your vagina, and they can help address an overgrowth caused by an imbalance.

A 2017 study suggests that eating yogurt helps expand your gut microbiome, which can help reduce yeast in your body. If you don't like yogurt, you can take a probiotic supplement or try other probiotic foods.

When it comes to using yogurt for a yeast infection, opt for plain Greek yogurt.

Warning: It's vital that the yogurt doesn't contain any added sugar, flavoring, or fruit. Added sugar can fuel the growth of the Candida fungus.

To reap the benefits, try:

eating the yogurt

applying it to your vulva around your vagina

inserting it vaginally using a clean tampon applicator or your fingers

2. Boric acid

Boric acid is a powerful antiseptic, and some people claim it can help clear up yeast infections resistant to other remedies.

Boric acid vaginal suppositories may be used in combination with medications to treat vaginal infections.

However, boric acid is toxic in large amounts. It can lead to:

kidney damage

acute circulatory system failure

death if you absorb too much

Warning: Avoid using boric acid on broken skin, and never take it orally.

If you're pregnant, don't use boric acid in any form. You may also want to consider another remedy if you have sensitive skin.

Discontinue use if you notice any discomfort.

3. Essential oil of oregano

Oil of oregano is not the same as common oregano or Origanum marjoram, which you'll usually find in your grocery store's spice section.

To ease a yeast infection, you could search for oregano oil made from wild oregano or Origanum vulgare.

A 2017 study suggests oregano essential oil may prove effective for altering the growth of Candida Albicans.

To use, mix three to five drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil, such as olive or sweet almond oil. Then, apply it to your skin by massaging or inhaling it using a diffuser. Don't apply this essential oil near your vagina.

Warning: Never ingest essential oils. Essential oils are meant to be inhaled as part of aromatherapy or diluted with massage oil to use during massage. They're also not meant to be used internally — external use only!

4. Probiotic suppositories and supplements

Probiotics can help restore the bacteria-yeast balance throughout your body.

Taking oral probiotics that contain strains of the Lactobacillus acidophilus bacteria can offer a number of health benefits, including helping bring your digestive tract and vaginal flora back into alignment.

Oral supplements can take several days to a few weeks to reach full effect, so some people use probiotics as vaginal suppositories to get results more quickly.

Evidence suggests probiotic suppositories can also help treat bacterial vaginosis (BV).

5. Coconut oil

Coconut oil is a fatty oil derived from the flesh of the coconut. The oil has many health benefits, including antifungal properties.

Research suggests coconut oil is effective against C. Albicans, making this home remedy one of the few with supportive evidence behind it.

To treat a vaginal yeast infection using coconut oil, be sure to buy pure, organic coconut oil. You could apply the oil directly to the affected area.

6. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is an essential oil used to help:

kill fungi

bacteria

viruses

In fact, research supports tea tree oil's antifungal properties.

Research from 2016 suggests a combination of probiotics and vaginal suppositories containing tea tree oil may help treat vaginal infections.

More recent lab findings continue to support the antimicrobial activities of tea tree oil.

Tea tree oil is an incredibly powerful essential oil. So, you'll always want to make sure you dilute it with a carrier oil, such as jojoba or coconut oil, if it's going to touch your skin — undiluted tea tree oil should never touch your skin. And just as a reminder, essential oils should never be used internally!

If you can, opt to purchase prepared tea tree vaginal suppositories — this is the safest option.

Warning: Only use tea tree oil occasionally, and never swallow it. If you have sensitive skin, you'll generally want to avoid using tea tree oil. Discontinue use if you experience any discomfort or irritation after using it.

7. Apple cider vinegar

One popular yeast infection remedy is an apple cider vinegar bath.

Vinegar has many medicinal uses, some more supported by research than others.

But when you add a half cup of apple cider vinegar to a lukewarm bathtub and soak for 20 minutes, the acidic component of the vinegar may help eliminate any harmful microorganisms, including yeast.

An apple cider vinegar bath is not the same as douching, which was designed to flush out all bacteria (but actually eliminates good and bad) from your vagina. Douching leaves you more prone to a recurrence of the yeast infection, so avoid douching with apple cider vinegar — or any other substance.

You'll want to dilute vinegar in water before it touches your skin. In addition, you could also try adding apple cider vinegar to your diet.

8. Garlic

Evidence suggests garlic may also help kill Candida, though some strains may prove more effective than others.

While more studies are needed, research from 2019 examined the effect of using a garlic solution on sores of the mouth and found it could effectively help curb the growth of Candida. That said, garlic was less effective than nystatin (Nystop), an antifungal medication.

If you want to try garlic to treat a yeast infection, it's best to simply add more garlic to your diet.

Warning: Some websites recommend inserting garlic into your vagina, but we do not recommend this approach. That's because the active compounds in garlic can cause burns and pain when applied to your skin or mucosa. Mucosa, or mucous membrane, is the type of moist tissue that lines your mouth — and yes — the walls of your vagina.

9. Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is an antiseptic that can kill bacteria and yeast. Lactobacillus bacteria in your vagina produce hydrogen peroxide as part of natural biological activity.

Some people swear by using hydrogen peroxide topically when they get a yeast infection.

Adding it to a bath or diluting it in water before applying it to your skin may help with yeast growing on the genitals. You can dilute by combining equal amounts of water and hydrogen peroxide.

Just keep in mind that hydrogen peroxide may not work on every species of yeast, and no strong research supports the use of hydrogen peroxide to treat vaginal infections.

Warning: It's recommended to avoid douching with hydrogen peroxide, never use hydrogen peroxide internally, and avoid using it for an extended period of time.

10. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an immune system booster that also has a role in skin health. A strong immune system allows your body to bring itself back into balance.

Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, has antimicrobial components, so some people add it to their diet to treat Candida overgrowth.

You can try increasing your intake of vitamin C to boost your body's ability to beat the yeast infection.

Warning: Do not apply the acidic vitamin C to the sensitive vaginal tissue.

11. Vitamin E

Some doctors recommend vitamin E for certain types of vaginal inflammation. In fact, lab research suggests vitamin E can help reduce inflammation caused by Candida albicans.

Evidence also suggests vitamin E suppositories may help address atrophic vaginitis (aka, vaginal atrophy), which is the thinning of the vaginal walls caused by a lack of estrogen. Atrophic vaginitis causes changes to the vagina's acidic environment, increasing the risk for bacterial and yeast infections.

You can also purchase vitamin E suppositories intended for vaginal use, or apply vitamin E oil to your vulva or vagina. Vitamin E may help soothe:

itching

burning

inflammation

If vitamin E doesn't seem to help, a good next step involves asking a healthcare professional for more guidance.

Why Does My Anus Itch?

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An itchy anus can happen for many reasons, including washing too much or too little, psoriasis and other skin conditions, infections, certain foods, and medication use.

Lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms, but some causes may need medical treatment.

In this article, we discuss the common causes of anal itching. We also look at some medical treatments and home remedies.

Pruritus ani is the medical term for intense anal itching.

Anal itching is a symptom and not a disease in itself. Many people feel embarrassed to seek help, but itching in this part of the body is a common problem, and treatment can usually resolve it.

In the meantime, it is important to avoid scratching the area. Doing this can make the itching worse, as it can break the skin, leading to further irritation on contact with moisture. Wiping too much after using the bathroom can also have this effect.

Often, avoiding scratching for a while will allow the skin to heal. Sometimes, however, there is an underlying problem that needs medical attention.

Causes of pruritus ani can be either primary, meaning that there is no sign of another condition, or secondary, which means that there is an identifiable underlying cause.

Possible underlying causes include:

Hygiene: Washing too much or too little can cause irritation.

Cosmetics: Soaps and other products can irritate the skin.

Skin conditions: Dermatitis and psoriasis can cause itching.

Anal or rectal disorders: Examples include conditions such as piles, anal fistulas, and anal fissures.

Infections: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), especially those that involve parasites, can lead to itching.

Systemic conditions: Some conditions that affect the whole body can cause itching, including anemia, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), jaundice, leukemia, lymphoma, and thyroid disease.

Incontinence: This condition can make it hard to control moisture and bacteria.

Foods: Dietary irritants include chili peppers.

Drugs: Pruritis can be a side effect of chemotherapy, colchicine (Colcrys), neomycin (Mycitracin), and corticosteroids.

What causes a swollen anus?

Dietary causes

Foods that may contribute to anal itching include:

caffeinated drinks

alcohol

milk products

peanuts

spices

citrus fruits

tomato

chocolate

Foods may trigger itching by:

reducing the strength of the anal muscle, as can happen with caffeine

leading to exaggerated anal reflexes

making the skin sensitive, as some undigested foods can do

causing loose and frequent stools, which increases the chance of seepage and recurrent wiping

However, there is no evidence that avoiding a specific food will help reduce itching.

Dermatological (skin-related) causes

Skin irritation can result from various factors, such as:

prolonged contact with feces, as with poor hygiene, fecal incontinence, and seepage

high moisture levels, which can lead to increased sweating — for example, in hot weather

persistent diarrhea, which can cause someone to wipe more and irritate the skin

eczema, psoriasis, and idiopathic dermatitis

keloid scars, consisting of hard, smooth scar tissue

scabies, a very itchy rash that a microscopic mite causes

allergic or contact dermatitis, which can flare up after using certain products

yeasts infections, such as thrush

bacterial skin infections

viruses such as the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can lead to genital warts

parasites, such as pinworm and hookworm

small skin tags, which can trap moisture and make cleaning the area difficult

proctitis, which is inflammation of the inner lining of the rectum

Gastroenterological (bowel) causes

Sometimes, a problem with the gastrointestinal system can cause itching. Potential issues include:

Systemic causes

Some conditions that affect the whole body can involve anal itching.

Examples of these conditions include:

Psychological factors

Psychological causes can sometimes trigger anal itching. In turn, this symptom can lead to anxiety, stress, and depression. In some cases, a person may have trouble sleeping.

Anyone with persistent itching should see a doctor. To identify the cause, the doctor may ask about:

how long itching has been present

what makes it worse or better

lifestyle factors, including diet, hygiene practices, and recent travel

the severity of the itch and its impact on the person's life

Other information that may help them identify the cause includes:

past medical history — in particular, any history of anorectal surgery, hemorrhoids, or diabetes

the presence of urinary or fecal incontinence

other signs and symptoms, such as bleeding or stomach cramps

The doctor will then carry out a physical examination, in which they may look for signs of:

cracked skin or other skin symptoms

inflammation

bleeding around the anal area

swellings that could indicate hemorrhoids

infection

abnormal skin lesions, such as skin tags or warts

fissures or fistulas

They may also carry out an internal examination called a digital rectal examination. The doctor will insert a gloved and lubricated finger through the anus into the rectum.

This procedure can help identify certain issues that need further evaluation, such as:

hemorrhoids

rectal bleeding

rectal masses

ulcerations

In some cases, the doctor may also recommend laboratory tests, such as:

swabs to check for an infection

a biopsy, if skin-related or other changes are present

a stool culture if diarrhea is a symptom

blood tests to rule out systemic conditions, such as liver disease

Stages

There are four stages of primary pruritis ani:

Stage 0: The skin is normal.

Stage 1: The skin is red and inflamed.

Stage 2: The skin is thickened.

Stage 3: The skin is thickened with coarse ridges and ulcers.

Some practical tips can help treat and prevent anal itching.

Home remedies and self-care

People can take steps to manage itching at home. These include:

avoiding known irritants

keeping the anal area clean and washing after emptying the bowel

washing with plain warm water, drying the area well, and using an aqueous cream or emollient as a barrier

drying the anal area by dabbing, not rubbing

applying unscented powder to help keep the area dry

eating plenty of fiber to promote regular bowel movements

avoiding highly seasoned and spiced foods

avoiding medicated, perfumed, or deodorant soaps

using wipes instead of paper

avoiding scratching

avoiding straining when using the bathroom

wearing cotton gloves when sleeping to prevent skin damage due to unconscious scratching

wearing loose, breathable cotton underwear

avoiding wearing underwear at night

avoiding acrylic and nylon clothing, as these can trap sweat

keeping the fingernails short and clean

soothing irritated skin by soaking cotton balls in cold water and applying them to the affected area

Aqueous cream is available to purchase online.

People can choose from several brands of toilet wipes online.

Medication

The following treatments may be available from pharmacies with or without a prescription.

Soothing ointments, such as bismuth subgallate or zinc oxide, can relieve symptoms.

Corticosteroids can reduce inflammation.

Emollients and barrier creams, such as aluminum hydroxide gel, cocoa butter, and glycerin, form a physical barrier to protect the skin.

Hemorrhoid treatments, such as hydrocortisone (Anusol), may help.

People should apply any creams to clean, dry skin at night, in the morning, and after a bowel movement.

It is best to apply topical steroids thinly. People should limit their use to two applications a day for no more than 7 days.

In some cases, a doctor may prescribe oral antihistamines.

Alternative options

Some people have suggested the following, although there is not enough evidence to confirm that they help:

Anal itching is a common problem, and lifestyle choices or over-the-counter medications can usually resolve it. If treatment does not resolve the itching within 3–6 weeks, the doctor may refer the person to a specialist.

If the itching is persistent or severe, or it happens alongside other symptoms, a person should see a doctor. In rare cases, there may be an underlying condition that needs medical attention.

Treating an underlying condition can help stop the itching, and it may prevent further complications.

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