When people hear “sexually transmitted infection,” their minds usually jump to viruses like HIV or herpes, or bacterial infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea. But there’s a less talked-about group that deserves attention: sexually transmitted fungal infections. Yes, fungi can also be part of the story—and they’re more common than most people realize.
Let’s take a closer, judgment-free look at how fungal infections can be linked to sexual activity, how they spread, what symptoms to watch for, and how to protect yourself and your partner.
What Is a Sexually Transmitted Fungal Infection?
A sexually transmitted fungal infection isn’t necessarily about fungi that only spread through sex. It’s about infections that can be transmitted during sexual contact—especially when conditions are right, such as warmth, moisture, friction, and close skin-to-skin contact.
The most common example? Yeast infections, particularly those caused by Candida albicans.
Candida is a type of fungus naturally found in the human body, especially in the mouth, gut, and genital area. When the balance of bacteria and yeast is disrupted—due to antibiotics, hormonal shifts, stress, or a weakened immune system—it can overgrow and cause symptoms.
Although yeast infections aren’t classified as traditional STIs, they can be passed between partners, especially through unprotected sex.
Common Scenarios Where Fungal Infections Can Spread Sexually
1. Vaginal yeast infections to partners
If someone has a vaginal yeast infection, unprotected vaginal, oral, or even manual-genital contact can transfer Candida to their partner. In many cases, the partner may not develop symptoms—but sometimes they do, especially if their immune system is stressed or their skin is irritated.
2. Penile yeast infections (balanitis)
Men can develop a red, itchy rash on the head of the penis (glans), sometimes with a burning sensation or white discharge. Uncircumcised men are more susceptible because the area beneath the foreskin can trap moisture and yeast.
3. Oral thrush as a result of oral-genital contact
Performing oral sex on someone with a vaginal yeast infection can occasionally lead to oral thrush—a fungal infection of the mouth characterized by white patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, or throat.
4. Anal yeast infections
The perianal region can also host fungal overgrowth, especially in warm, moist environments. Sexual contact involving the anus can facilitate transmission, though the risk is more about transferring overgrown yeast than “catching” it in a traditional STI sense.
Symptoms to Watch For
The symptoms of a fungal infection in the genital area often mimic other conditions, which makes self-diagnosis tricky. Here’s what to look out for:
In women:
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Intense itching or burning in the vaginal area
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Thick, white discharge (often compared to cottage cheese)
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Redness or swelling of the vulva
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Pain during sex or urination
In men:
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Red rash or small white spots on the penis
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Itching, burning, or discomfort
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Foul odor under the foreskin
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Pain during urination or sex
Orally:
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White patches on the tongue or inside the cheeks
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Redness or soreness in the mouth
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Difficulty swallowing (in severe cases)
If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Why Do These Infections Happen?
Several factors can increase the likelihood of fungal overgrowth and transmission:
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Use of antibiotics, which kill helpful bacteria and let yeast thrive
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Diabetes or high blood sugar levels
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Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, birth control pills)
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Weakened immune system
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Tight or non-breathable clothing that traps moisture
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Unprotected sex with a partner who has an active yeast infection
And yes, even poor genital hygiene—or over-cleaning—can disrupt the natural balance and invite yeast to take hold.
Treatment Options
Most fungal infections are easily treatable with antifungal medications, available as creams, suppositories, or oral tablets. For genital yeast infections, options like fluconazole (oral) or clotrimazole/miconazole (topical) are commonly used.
Partners may also need treatment—even if they’re asymptomatic—to prevent a cycle of reinfection. This is especially important for couples who have frequent sexual contact or if one partner keeps getting recurring infections.
Probiotics, dietary changes, and avoiding irritating personal care products can also help rebalance the body’s microbial environment.
Prevention Tips You Can Actually Use
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Use protection. Condoms or dental dams can reduce skin-to-skin transmission of fungi.
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Communicate. If you or your partner has symptoms, hold off on sex until the infection clears.
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Stay dry. Change out of wet clothing quickly and choose breathable underwear.
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Practice good hygiene—but don’t overdo it. Avoid douching or harsh soaps that disrupt your body’s natural defenses.
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Support your immune system. Eat well, manage stress, and get enough rest.
Remember: these infections aren’t about being “dirty” or promiscuous. They’re about biology, balance, and awareness.
A Quiet Topic Worth Speaking About
Fungal infections may not top the list of conversations around sexual health, but they should. They’re common, treatable, and—when misunderstood—easily passed back and forth between partners.
So if you’ve experienced recurrent yeast infections, unexplained genital discomfort, or a pattern that just doesn’t add up, don’t dismiss it. Trust your body. Ask questions. And never feel embarrassed to bring it up with your healthcare provider.
Because sometimes, the least-discussed topics are the ones that matter most.