Anal Yeast Infection:

Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention

Think you have an anal yeast infection? Don't despair - you can treat and get rid of that rectal infection and itching once and for all.

First we'll discuss the symptoms and who is at risk of getting infections. Then onto the important info - how to treat, cure and prevent anal infections from recurring. Whether with medication or not.

So let's get on with it.

Burning? Itching? Find Out What is Causing Your Anal Infection and How To Get Rid of It For Good

A rectal yeast infection is essentially caused by the overgrowth of Candida yeast (Candida albicans) in the gastrointestinal tract or around the anus. It can affect both men and women.

Candida yeast is quite often present in many areas around the body – the gut, the vagina, the mouth, the rectum, on the skin etc. - so it is quite normal for it also to be present in the rectum and around the anus.

The yeast loves warm, dark, moist places which provide it with a comfortable environment. However, it only causes problems when it multiplies rapidly, causing a yeast infection.

For more detail on yeast infections in general see our page on yeast infections basics.

Who is at Risk of Anal Yeast Infections?

As, I have said, both men and women can get this type of anal infection but some are more at risk than others:

• Those participating in anal sex using a lubricant – The lubricant makes the anus and rectum even more moist.
• People who participate in anal sex without a condom – This puts you at risk of many types of infection, not just yeast infections.
• Pregnant women – The hormonal changes during pregnancy mean that a woman is more at risk of vaginal yeast infections and these can spread to the anus.
• People who are overweight.
• Women suffering with a vaginal yeast infection.
• A man or woman who has an oral yeast infection – The yeast can travel from the mouth through the gastrointestinal tract to the rectum.

Symptoms of a Rectal Yeast Infection

A yeast infection in the rectum area will need treating to get rid of it, so here are the main symptoms to look out for:

• Anal itching – Anal itching is a common symptom of an anal yeast infection but is also associated with parasite infections like pinworm, and other health problems like anal fissures or hemorrhoids. Itching can also be caused by sweating.
• A burning feeling – Again this can also be caused by fissures or hemorrhoids, or damage from anal sex.
• A red rash or small blisters around the anus.
• Flaking, peeling or cracked skin around the rectum
• Soreness and Irritation around the anal area

Due to the fact that these symptoms are also common to other anal conditions, if you have never had an anal yeast infection before, you should visit your doctor to make sure you have the correct diagnosis.

Anal Infections Treatment

Treating these type of yeast infections effectively can be quite difficult and take awhile because of the presence of fecal matter.

Your doctor will probably prescribe a cream, like Monostat, with active antifungal ingredients to kill off the yeast.

Probiotics can also help by building up the body's supply of “friendly” bacteria which keep the Candida yeast under control.

Taking the steps below to prevent anal infections from recurring will also help relieve some of the discomfort.

For immediate relief you can apply witch hazel to the affected area with a cotton ball. It is soothing, mild and will provide temporary relief.

Preventing Anal Yeast Infections

These rectal infections are no fun and are difficult to treat, so reduce the risk of developing another by:

• Wearing breathable cotton underwear to reduce sweating.
• Sleeping without underwear or pajama bottoms to let air circulate around the genitals and anus.
• Keeping the anus dry – Wiping it properly (front to back) when you go to the toilet and drying it thoroughly after bathing.
• Showering after intercourse.
• Making sure that any sex toys are clean.
• Consuming probiotics or “live” yogurt to keep a good balance of healthy bacteria.
• Keeping clean and maintaining good personal hygiene.

You will need to inform your partner that you have an infection as they may also need treatment and you should avoid any anal sexual activity until the infection has gone.

Remember, don't ignore anal itching or discomfort – take steps to get rid of an anal yeast infection and help prevent it from recurring.

Burning? Itching? Find Out What is Causing Your Anal Infection and How To Get Rid of It For Good 

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