Genital yeast infection (candidiasis): symptoms, treatment and whether to tell your partner
A genital yeast infection (candidiasis) is caused by a fungus that lives naturally in the body. It is very common: 3 out of 4 women will have one at some point. It is not considered a classic STI, because it usually appears without being passed on, although it can sometimes pass to a partner during sex.
What is candidiasis?
It is mainly caused by the fungus Candida albicans, which lives on the skin and in the mouth, gut and vagina without causing problems. When the balance is upset, it overgrows and causes the infection. It is favored by antibiotics, pregnancy, poorly controlled diabetes, a weakened immune system, tight or synthetic clothing and products that irritate the area, such as some soaps. It is not the same as chlamydia, which is caused by a bacterium.
Yeast infection symptoms
- In women: itching and burning of the vulva and vagina, redness and swelling, thick white discharge, like cottage cheese, which does not usually smell, and pain when urinating or during sex.
- In men (balanitis): redness, itching, burning or whitish patches on the head of the penis and under the foreskin.
If the discharge smells bad or is yellowish or greenish, or if you have a fever or abdominal pain, it may be another infection: see a doctor.
Is a yeast infection sexually transmitted?
In most cases it is not passed on; it appears because of an imbalance in your own body. Even so, the fungus can pass to a partner during vaginal, oral or anal sex, or by sharing sex toys, especially if there are symptoms.
Diagnosis
It is often diagnosed from the symptoms and an examination. If it is the first time, if the symptoms are unclear or if it keeps coming back, the doctor may take a sample of the discharge (swab) to confirm it and rule out other infections, such as trichomoniasis or bacterial vaginosis.
Yeast infection treatment
It is treated with antifungals as a cream, vaginal suppositories or tablets. Some are sold over the counter, but see your doctor if it is the first time, if you are pregnant, if you are unsure of the diagnosis or if it does not improve. Antibiotics do not cure it and can make it worse.
Do you need to tell your partner?
Your partner usually does not need treatment if they have no symptoms. It is a good idea to tell them if:
- Your partner has itching, redness or patches on the genitals: they should see a doctor to get treated.
- Your yeast infections keep coming back: your doctor will decide whether your partner should be checked.
- There is no confirmed diagnosis: if it turned out to be another STI, your partners would need to get tested.
Explain it naturally: it is a very common infection, it does not mean anyone cheated and it is not caused by poor hygiene.
Who should you notify?
There is no notification period as with classic STIs. It is enough to tell your current partner if they have symptoms or if the infection keeps coming back.
If you have been told you might have a yeast infection
If you have no symptoms, you usually do not need treatment. If you notice itching, burning, redness or unusual discharge, see your doctor or ask at the pharmacy. If you are unsure which infection it is, get an STI check-up.
How to prevent yeast infections
Wear cotton underwear and avoid very tight clothing, do not use vaginal douches or scented soaps on the area, dry yourself well after showering or swimming and do not take antibiotics unless a doctor prescribes them.
Frequently asked questions about yeast infections
Can I have sex if I have a yeast infection?
It is better to wait until you are cured: sex can be uncomfortable, make the irritation worse and pass the fungus to your partner. Also, some creams and suppositories weaken latex condoms.
Why does my yeast infection keep coming back?
It can be due to antibiotics, hormonal changes, diabetes, a weakened immune system or incomplete treatment. If you have 3 or more episodes in a year, see a doctor: there is a specific treatment for recurrent yeast infections.
Can men get a yeast infection?
Yes, although it is less common than in women. It is more frequent in men with diabetes or who are not circumcised.
Other sexually transmitted infections
Syphilis · Gonorrhea · Genital herpes · HIV · Pubic lice (crabs) · HPV and genital warts · Chlamydia · Hepatitis A, B and C · Trichomoniasis · Scabies · Mpox (monkeypox)
Sources: MedlinePlus: vaginal yeast infection; CDC: vulvovaginal candidiasis treatment guidelines.Health information updated in October 2026. It does not replace advice from a healthcare professional.