and Managing Recurrent Penile Yeast Infections

Q: and Managing Recurrent Penile Yeast Infections

Hello： 1) Long-term use is certainly not good; at least the skin will undergo changes. <br>It may be necessary to understand the common causes of inflammation. <br>If it is not caused by the foreskin, circumcision may not be very helpful. <br>2) Scar tissue forms, which lacks ela

Penile candidiasis

Hello Dr.
Du, I discovered a fungal infection on my glans at the beginning of 2020, and it has been about a year and a half since then.
There have been recurrent episodes, and I have used two different antifungal creams, and now I am using a third one, which contains Clotrimazole.
I usually wash with warm water and dry myself after using the restroom.
I would like to ask you:
1.
If the fungus cannot be completely eradicated, will using antifungal cream for a lifetime be harmful to my body? Is there a need for circumcision?
2.
Recently, I have noticed that my foreskin has become tighter, and I feel pain if I try to retract it too much.
Although the foreskin does not cover the glans when erect, it feels like I have reached the limit, unlike before when I could retract it further.
There have been a few instances of bleeding, which feels like a tear, usually on the side of the glans (where the glans connects to the foreskin) or at the frenulum below the glans.
Has this condition worsened?
3.
I have experienced a couple of instances where my glans becomes swollen and painful during ejaculation.
What could this indicate? Due to the current pneumonia pandemic, it is inconvenient for me to visit the hospital for a check-up.
I kindly ask Dr.
Du for more information or possible solutions.
Thank you.

Eric, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/13

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: 1) Long-term use is certainly not good; at least the skin will undergo changes.
It may be necessary to understand the common causes of inflammation.
If it is not caused by the foreskin, circumcision may not be very helpful.
2) Scar tissue forms, which lacks elasticity and can lead to tearing.
3) If the foreskin forms a ring that constricts the glans, it may be related; otherwise, there shouldn't be much of a connection.
Wishing you good health.
If there are issues with blood sugar, it is essential to control blood glucose levels.

Reply Date: 2021/06/13

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding recurrent penile yeast infections. It sounds like you have been dealing with a challenging situation, and I will do my best to provide you with comprehensive information and guidance based on your concerns.

1. Chronic Use of Antifungal Creams: Clotrimazole is a topical antifungal medication commonly used to treat yeast infections. While it can be effective, using antifungal creams for an extended period may not be ideal. Prolonged use can lead to skin irritation or allergic reactions, and it may not address the underlying cause of the recurrent infections. If the yeast infection persists despite treatment, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation. They may recommend alternative treatments or investigate other potential causes, such as diabetes or immune system issues. Regarding circumcision, it is sometimes considered for recurrent infections, especially if there is a tight foreskin (phimosis) that makes proper hygiene difficult. However, this decision should be made in consultation with a urologist or healthcare provider.

2. Tight Foreskin and Pain: The tightness of your foreskin and the pain you experience when trying to retract it could indicate a condition known as phimosis. This can lead to discomfort during erections and may increase the risk of tearing, as you described. If you have experienced bleeding, it is essential to address this with a healthcare provider. They may recommend gentle stretching exercises for the foreskin or, in some cases, surgical intervention if the condition is severe. It is important to avoid forcing the foreskin back, as this can cause further injury.

3. Pain During Ejaculation: Experiencing pain during ejaculation can be concerning and may be related to several factors, including inflammation, infection, or irritation of the tissues in the genital area. It could also be associated with the yeast infection or any underlying conditions affecting the penis or surrounding structures. Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention when possible, even if it is challenging due to the current pandemic. Telehealth consultations may be an option to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare provider without needing to visit a clinic in person.

Additional Considerations:
- Hygiene Practices: Continue to maintain good hygiene by washing the area with warm water and ensuring it is thoroughly dried after washing. Avoid using harsh soaps or irritants that can exacerbate the condition.

- Diet and Lifestyle: Sometimes, dietary factors can contribute to yeast infections. Reducing sugar intake and incorporating probiotics may help balance the flora in your body. Additionally, wearing loose-fitting underwear and avoiding moisture buildup can be beneficial.

- Underlying Health Issues: If you have recurrent yeast infections, it may be worth checking for underlying health issues such as diabetes or hormonal imbalances, which can predispose you to infections.

In summary, while topical antifungal treatments can be effective, they should not be a long-term solution without further evaluation. Addressing the tight foreskin and any pain during ejaculation is essential for your overall health and comfort. I encourage you to seek medical advice when feasible, as a healthcare provider can offer tailored recommendations based on a thorough assessment of your condition. Thank you for reaching out, and I hope this information helps you navigate your health concerns!

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