Nothing ruins a great date like getting a yeast infection after sex, but the unfortunate reality is that sexual activity can trigger a yeast infection.
Yeast infections are a common issue most experience at some point in their lives. Women have a 75% chance of developing a vaginal yeast infection at least once in their lifetime, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Yeast infections occur when there’s an overgrowth of the fungus Candida in the vagina, leading to symptoms like itching, burning, and a thick, white discharge. But can sex increase the risk of these uncomfortable infections? Let’s dive into the details.
What is a yeast infection?
A yeast infection (vulvovaginal candidiasis) is caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida — usually, Candida albicans.
The Candida fungus naturally lives in the vaginal microbiome and is harmless when kept in check. However, given the right conditions, it grows out of control and causes uncomfortable symptoms.
Some factors that increase the risk for vaginal candidiasis include:
- Pregnancy
- Being on hormonal birth control
- Being on menopausal hormonal therapy
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Having a weakened immune system
- Current or recent antibiotic use
Symptoms of a yeast infection include:
- White and clumpy vaginal discharge that resembles cottage cheese
- Vaginal itching and irritation
- A burning sensation when you pee
- Painful sex
- Redness and swelling of the vulva.
Why do I get a yeast infection after sex?
Although sex itself doesn’t directly cause a yeast infection, it can increase the risk of one developing one. Here are a few reasons why:
- Altered pH balance: The vagina has a delicate pH balance that helps keep harmful bacteria and fungi in check. Semen is slightly alkaline and can disrupt this balance when it mixes with the acidic environment of the vagina, potentially facilitating overgrowth of yeast.
- Irritation and microtears: Penetrative sex can sometimes cause minor irritation or tiny tears in the vaginal lining, making it easier for yeast to grow, especially if there's already a slight imbalance.
- Lubricants and condoms: Some lubricants and condoms contain ingredients that might irritate the vagina or alter its natural flora, creating a more favorable environment for yeast growth.
Also, one partner can transmit a yeast infection to the other. If vaginal fluids are exchanged, there's a small risk of transmitting yeast infections. Men can also get a penile yeast infection and pass it on to their female partners if they have unprotected sex with an active yeast infection.
If you notice symptoms such as itching, burning, swelling, or a thick, white discharge resembling cottage cheese after sex, you might have a yeast infection. These symptoms can develop anywhere from a few days to a week after having sex.
But it's important to remember that while sex can be a trigger, there are other ways to get a yeast infection (even if you're not sexually active), so yeast infections are not considered a sexually transmitted infection.
How to prevent a yeast infection after sex
Annoyingly, there’s no way to entirely prevent yeast infections, but there are a few things you can do to help reduce your risk of getting a yeast infection after sex:
- Choose microbiome-friendly products: Avoid using flavored condoms or lube, as the sugar in them can feed vaginal yeast. If possible, avoid using spermicide, as well.
- Practice safe sex: Use a barrier method such as condoms or dental dams during vaginal and oral sex, which can drastically reduce your likelihood of developing a yeast infection.
- Keep it clean: Change condoms when switching from anal and vaginal penetration.
- Wash your sex toys: When using sex toys with a partner, make sure to clean them before and after each use.
Vaginal yeast infections are usually easy to treat with over-the-counter antifungal creams or suppositories. However, if it’s your first time experiencing these symptoms or if they persist despite treatment, it’s a good idea to check in with your healthcare provider. They can confirm the diagnosis and recommend the best treatment plan for you.
How long after a yeast infection can I have sex?
You should avoid having sex until all your symptoms have cleared up. Sex with a yeast infection is not fun, and it could make symptoms worse.
Yeast infections usually clear up within seven days of starting treatment. That said, they have a nasty habit of being stubborn, so it might take a little longer.
Yeast infection vs STI
Yeast infections aren’t considered sexually transmitted infections, but they often present with similar symptoms. It's easy to confuse yeast infection with a sexually transmitted infection or another vaginal infection. The most common overlapping symptoms include:
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Burning or discomfort when you pee
- Painful sex
- Pelvic pain
- Redness and swelling of the vagina
- Itching or burning in and around the vagina.
If you experience any of these symptoms after having sex, see a healthcare provider. They can perform a pelvic exam and do a test to rule out any sexually transmitted infections.
FAQ
Why did I get a yeast infection after sex?
Sex can cause an imbalance in the vaginal microbiome that allows Candida to overgrow, triggering a yeast infection. Semen, lube, and spermicides can all alter the vaginal pH and create the perfect opportunity for yeast to grow.
How can I avoid yeast infections after sex?
The best (albeit not foolproof) way to avoid yeast infections after sex is by using a barrier method like condoms or dental dams during vaginal and oral sex. These won’t entirely prevent yeast infections, but they can drastically reduce your risk of getting one from sexual activity. Speak to your healthcare provider if you suffer from recurrent yeast infections.
Can a man give a woman a yeast infection?
Technically, yes. Penile yeast infections aren't as common as vaginal yeast infections, but a man can give a woman a yeast infection via unprotected sex.
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