Male yeast infections are widely misunderstood and overlooked. Most men can go through life not actually realizing they have an infection. Because men are built differently to women it is not always so obvious that an infection is present. However if an infection does manifest itself then it can be an extremely painful and potentially lethal condition.

We all have yeast type bacteria in our bodies, some good and some not. As a general rule the yeast is kept under control and our bodies function normally. Sometimes though the natural immune system can be weakened and the yeast can take hold and expand. This can cause a number of complaints and be very uncomfortable. A yeast infection can appear in many different parts of the body but for now we will look specifically at male yeast infections in the groin area.

How can I recognize it?

Usually it will be a white film under and around the foreskin. This in itself is no great problem because the yeast is dormant, but you do have to recognize it is there and deal with it. More serious cases are dried skin which can crack and bleed especially during intercourse. Also there will be pain during urination and possibly a white discharge. The symptoms are very similar to some STD's, so even if you are sure you know that it is a yeast infection it is still important to get it diagnosed correctly.

How did it get there?

Most males will automatically blame their sexual partner if they have a yeast infection. Because the yeast bacteria predominantly live in the stomach and intestine it would appear that an infection doesn't always have to be from an external source. Personal hygiene plays an important part in male yeast infections. Of course the infection could have come from a sexual partner in which case they need to be informed.

What will happen now?

If left unchecked the infection will get worse. You may be able to slow it down but it will ultimately spread, possibly into the prostrate and then lead to further complications. Many experts will say this isn't true but the correlation between the increase in prostrate problems with males and the increase in the diagnosis of yeast infections is hard to ignore. Make no mistake that illness through the prostrate is not the exclusive realm of older males any more. The average age of males with prostrate complications is now in the early 40's.

What can I do?

The first thing you must do is get the infection diagnosed correctly. This is because it may be something else entirely and you are not treating it correctly. A doctor will usually give you a course of treatment to clear the infection. This is okay because it will help any pain and discomfort. However if you are anti drugs there are some natural remedies on the market. These are usually very good but make sure you read the label first and ask for proof of results. If you are unsure at all then consult your doctor or health practitioner. A very good natural remedy is natural 'live' yogurt, without sugar or flavoring. It can be applied externally or internally, or if you take it as part of your diet it will help your natural immunity.

How can I make sure I don't get it again?

It really depends on how you got it in the first place. If it was a random sexual partner then wear a condom next time. If it was from a steady partner or an infection within yourself then you and your partner would need to look at your lifestyles and diet. Reduce any stress and exercise. Cut out sugar and sweeteners. Yeast products like bread, beer, vinegar and 'mold' foods like cheese.

While male yeast infections are largely ignored they do carry the same element of risk as infections to females. Treatment in the short term will stop any pain but does not get to the underlying problem of how the infection came about. The acceptance of antibiotics as a cure everything and an increase in stress levels have both contributed. We all need to review our everyday diet and reduce the intake of foods that are regarded as yeast foods. Only by doing this can we ensure that we lessen the risk of an infection and stay healthy.