Anal Yeast Infection

While yeast infections are generally known to primarily affect areas of the body such as the mouth and the genitals, anal yeast infections can occur. Because of the means of transmission of this infection, it is often considered a sexually transmitted infection. The anal yeast infection, like any yeast infection, is caused by fungi by the name of Candida Albicans, which exists normally in the human body, particularly in the genital tract in women and in the gastrointestinal system in both sexes. Candidiasis, or yeast infections can easily be transmitted between sexual partners during sexual intercourse, so couples who practice anal sex are more likely to be affected by this infection.

Those most likely to contact an anal yeast infection are persons who have either undergone an antibiotics treatment recently, have an erratic, unhealthy lifestyle, multiple sexual partners, a poor sexual hygiene, are overweight, sweat abundantly or are suffering from diabetes or other metabolic or immunodeficiency illnesses. The main means of contacting anal yeast infection is by having anal intercourse, but it’s not the only way. One must remember that Candida lives in the gastrointestinal tract, and therefore can cause infections at anal level, especially when poor hygiene and humidity are constant in the area. The anal yeast infection can also appear in women during pregnancy.

A means to prevent the transmission of yeast infections is the use of condoms, but it might not be enough. In fact, it has been reported that the anal yeast infection can even be caused by irritants in the composition of condoms, so while giving up on the use of condoms is not indicated, you might want to try different types in order to find one that suits your and your partner’s needs. Sexual lubricants can also be at fault for the appearance of an anal yeast infection, and specifically those containing a substance called nonoxynol-9. The same substance has also been known to be responsible for female genital candidiasis.

Ultimately, the best way to prevent the appearance of an anal yeast infection is to lead a responsible sexual life, have a good communication with your sexual partner and undergo periodic checkups from your doctor, along with your partner. In addition, a good hygiene before and after engaging in anal sex is recommended.
The anal yeast infection is first and foremost characterized by anal itching. Initial itching will usually be followed by a redness and inflammation of the anal area, along with blisters organized in small groups. As the blisters emerge, the itching sensation might intensify, and as the anal yeast infection progresses, the skin around the anus might become rougher to touch and might start peeling.

Many people are prone to using over the counter treatments for anal itching, being unaware that the source of the itching might be an anal yeast infection. The problem with the over the counter ointments for anal itching and hemoroids is that they contain antibiotics and corticoid anti-inflammatory components, which not only will not help, but will kill off all the other bacteria that is keeping the Candida in check, in other words, it will do more harm than good. The treatment for anal yeast infection consists of topic or systemic antifungal medication, and the treatment must be administered to both sexual partners, otherwise the infection would just be passed from one partner to another. Remember, if you think you have any of the symptoms for anal yeast infection, you should see your doctor at once.