{"id":5739,"date":"2025-03-11T00:02:00","date_gmt":"2025-03-11T08:02:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/?p=5739"},"modified":"2026-01-08T11:57:22","modified_gmt":"2026-01-08T19:57:22","slug":"a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi","title":{"rendered":"A Quick Reference Guide to Common Conditions Related to Sexual Health, Part 3: Parasites and Fungi"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 ez-toc-wrap-center counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">In This Article<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\/#Understanding_the_Importance_of_Sexual_Health\" >Understanding the Importance of Sexual Health<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\/#What_is_Trichomoniasis_Symptoms_Diagnosis_and_Treatment\" >What is Trichomoniasis? Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\/#Asymptomatic_Trichomoniasis_Risks_and_Complications\" >Asymptomatic Trichomoniasis: Risks and Complications<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\/#Complications_of_Untreated_Trichomoniasis\" >Complications of Untreated Trichomoniasis\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\/#Diagnosing_and_Treating_Trichomoniasis\" >Diagnosing and Treating Trichomoniasis\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\/#Understanding_Pubic_Lice_Causes_Symptoms_and_Treatment\" >Understanding Pubic Lice: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\/#Identifying_and_Treating_Pubic_Lice_Infections\" >Identifying and Treating Pubic Lice Infections\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\/#Recognizing_Signs_and_Symptoms_of_Pubic_Lice\" >Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of Pubic Lice\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\/#Diagnosing_and_Managing_Candida_Infections\" >Diagnosing and Managing Candida Infections<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\/#Recognizing_Signs_and_Symptoms_of_Candida_Infections\" >Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of Candida Infections\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\/#Diagnosis_and_Treatment_Options_for_Candida_Infections\" >Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Candida Infections\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\/#Understanding_Tinea_Cruris_Causes_Symptoms_and_Treatment\" >Understanding Tinea Cruris: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\/#Recognizing_Signs_and_Symptoms_of_Tinea_Cruris\" >Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of Tinea Cruris\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\/#Diagnosis_and_Treatment_Options_for_Tinea_Cruris\" >Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Tinea Cruris<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\/#The_Importance_of_Taking_Charge_of_Your_Sexual_Health\" >The Importance of Taking Charge of Your Sexual Health<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\/#About_the_Author\" >About the Author&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\/#Contributors\" >Contributors<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\/#More_Articles_on_Sexually_Transmitted_Infections_STI\" >More Articles on Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\/#References_Resources\" >References\u00a0&amp; Resources<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_the_Importance_of_Sexual_Health\"><\/span>Understanding the Importance of Sexual Health<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our sexual health is vital to our well-being and includes our physical, emotional, mental, and social health. It revolves around respecting, safeguarding, and realizing our sexual rights while, ideally, remaining free from infections. Unfortunately, our sexual health can be compromised unexpectedly by a variety of pathogens such as <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-bacterial-infections\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">bacteria<\/a>, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-2-viruses\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">viruses<\/a>, parasites, and fungi. Understanding how these infections impact us is essential for enjoying a satisfying and healthy sex life. To that end, let&#8217;s explore the variety of parasitic and fungal infections that may affect sexual health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"446\" height=\"338\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/Trichomoniasis-illustration.png\" alt=\"Trichomoniasis fungus\" class=\"wp-image-5741\" style=\"width:368px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/Trichomoniasis-illustration.png 446w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/Trichomoniasis-illustration.png?resize=300,227 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 446px) 100vw, 446px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_Trichomoniasis_Symptoms_Diagnosis_and_Treatment\"><\/span>What is Trichomoniasis? Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let&#8217;s start with trichomoniasis, sometimes called trich (pronounced &#8220;trick&#8221;) is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the parasite <em><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Trichomonas_vaginalis\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Trichomonas vaginalis<\/a><\/em>. Parasites are a type of microorganism that need to live on or in a host, like you or me. In the case of trich, it&#8217;s passed from one person to another through sexual contact.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Note that this article focuses on reproductive health disorders within the sex binary (female\/male), examining conditions that affect the reproductive tract. In biological female bodies, trich typically infects the vagina and urethra. In contrast, in biological male bodies, it affects the urethra and, less commonly, the head of the penis, prostate gland, or sometimes the epididymis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Asymptomatic_Trichomoniasis_Risks_and_Complications\"><\/span>Asymptomatic Trichomoniasis: Risks and Complications<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What makes trich so &#8220;tricky,&#8221; you might say, is that the majority of those infected never develop any signs or symptoms, which means they can unknowingly pass the infection along to their sexual partner(s) or have a long-standing infection. For those who <em>do <\/em>experience signs and symptoms, they may have either abnormal vaginal discharge that is thick, frothy, foul-smelling, or yellow-green in color or penile discharge, along with pelvic pain, swelling, or itching; dysuria (pain when urinating); and dyspareunia (pain during sexual intercourse). While a relatively large percentage of individuals don&#8217;t have signs and symptoms, patients should make sure to take this parasite seriously.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Complications_of_Untreated_Trichomoniasis\"><\/span>Complications of Untreated Trichomoniasis\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Complications from untreated trich aren&#8217;t common, but they can include pelvic inflammatory disease in biological females along with birth complications, like preterm labor, in those who are pregnant. It can also increase the risk of <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/trichomoniasis\/about\/index.html#:~:text=Trich%20can%20increase%20the%20risk,it%20to%20a%20sex%20partner.\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">contracting other STIs<\/a> and developing cervical cancer.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Pelvic inflammatory disease - causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, pathology\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/eYk3GdBw-28?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Diagnosing_and_Treating_Trichomoniasis\"><\/span>Diagnosing and Treating Trichomoniasis\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Since trich can show no outward signs or symptoms, you may assume it&#8217;s difficult to diagnose trich, and you&#8217;d be right. If trich is suspected, patients will need to get a genital swab and, in some cases, a urine test. And because trich can be asymptomatic, it&#8217;s crucial to get routinely screened for STIs, especially before engaging in sexual activity with a new partner, to help identify ongoing, inconspicuous infections.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Treatment includes a course of antibiotics, usually <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Antibiotics_-_Metronidazole%3A_Nursing_Pharmacology\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">metronidazole<\/a>. Patients should also notify their sexual partners and ask them to get treatment to prevent the recurrence and spread of the infection. While it&#8217;s difficult to share this kind of news with your current sexual partner or a potential new sexual partner that you have an STI, be sure to remain calm and speak directly and honestly about it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you need assistance or support sharing information about an STI diagnosis, there are a variety of online resources (see below), or you can chat with your healthcare provider.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"989\" height=\"1021\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/pubic-louse-lice.png\" alt=\"A pubic louse\" class=\"wp-image-5742\" style=\"width:329px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/pubic-louse-lice.png 989w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/pubic-louse-lice.png?resize=291,300 291w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/pubic-louse-lice.png?resize=768,793 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 989px) 100vw, 989px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_Pubic_Lice_Causes_Symptoms_and_Treatment\"><\/span>Understanding Pubic Lice: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let&#8217;s talk about another parasite. Colloquially referred to as crabs, the scientific name for pubic lice is <em>Pthirus pubis. <\/em>While they aren&#8217;t considered STIs, they&#8217;re commonly transmitted through sexual contact or during non-sexual close-body contact. You can even get pubic lice from infected clothes, towels, or bedding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Identifying_and_Treating_Pubic_Lice_Infections\"><\/span>Identifying and Treating Pubic Lice Infections\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pubic lice typically live on pubic hair, in or around the penis and vagina, but they can also infest chest hair, armpit hair, or eyelashes rather than the hair on your head. While pubic lice are technically large enough to see with the naked eye, they&#8217;re very small. More often, signs and symptoms like itching, white\/yellow dots on the hair, brown spots on underwear, or sticky eyelashes are better indicators of a pubic lice infection for patients.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Recognizing_Signs_and_Symptoms_of_Pubic_Lice\"><\/span>Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of Pubic Lice\u00a0\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Using a magnifying glass to identify pubic lice visually is the first diagnostic step for clinicians. Once identified, treatment includes over-the-counter and\/or prescription creams and\/or shampoos such as Permethrin (Nix). On top of that, it&#8217;s important to wash your clothes, bedding, and towels in hot water and\/or bag them up for a week or more. And make sure you don&#8217;t forget to clean your mattress! These treatments remove any lingering lice and should prevent any reinfection and spread. As always, be sure to notify any sexual partner or other people you&#8217;ve had close contact with who may have been exposed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>On to fungi!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"433\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/candida-yeast.png\" alt=\"Candida yeast\" class=\"wp-image-5743\" style=\"width:331px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/candida-yeast.png 600w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/candida-yeast.png?resize=300,217 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Diagnosing_and_Managing_Candida_Infections\"><\/span>Diagnosing and Managing Candida Infections<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some fungi are also considered parasites because they require a host to live. However, not all fungi are parasites. With regard to sexual health, the most common type of fungus is yeast. We&#8217;re going to focus on infections of the reproductive tracts caused by a yeast called <em>candida<\/em>. It&#8217;s important to note that <em>candida <\/em>normally lives on our skin, but under the right conditions, it can get way out of control and overgrow, which causes a yeast infection.\u00a0<em>Candida <\/em>infections, also called candidiasis, can occur in the vagina and on the head of the penis, especially in those who are uncircumcised.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Recognizing_Signs_and_Symptoms_of_Candida_Infections\"><\/span>Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of Candida Infections\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While yeast infections aren&#8217;t technically an STI, they can be more common in those who are sexually active. You can also get a yeast infection from using certain medications, like antibiotics, or by being overly stressed with a weakened immune system. And, sometimes, they happen for no identifiable reason!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For biologically female patients, signs and symptoms of a yeast infection typically include irritation, itching, or burning of the vagina and\/or vulva; thick, white discharge; and even swelling. For biologically male patients, the head of the penis can become swollen, itchy, sore, and red. There might also be discharge, pain with urination, and difficulty retracting the foreskin in uncircumcised patients.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Diagnosis_and_Treatment_Options_for_Candida_Infections\"><\/span>Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Candida Infections\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To diagnose candidiasis, swabs of the affected area are taken. Treatment consists of antifungal medications. To help prevent a recurrence, keep the genital area dry, wear breathable fabrics like cotton underwear, and avoid douching so that your body can re-establish a healthy balance.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1004\" height=\"678\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/jock-itch-tinea-cruris.png\" alt=\"Close up illustration of Tinea Cruris also known as jock itch.\" class=\"wp-image-5744\" style=\"width:354px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/jock-itch-tinea-cruris.png 1004w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/jock-itch-tinea-cruris.png?resize=300,203 300w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/03\/jock-itch-tinea-cruris.png?resize=768,519 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1004px) 100vw, 1004px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_Tinea_Cruris_Causes_Symptoms_and_Treatment\"><\/span>Understanding Tinea Cruris: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our final fungal infection, tinea cruris, is commonly known as jock itch and usually affects the genitals as well as the perineal and perianal areas. Transmitting tinea cruris happens through contact with an infected person or surface. However, you can also spread the infection to a variety of places on your own body. For instance, you might have a tinea infection on your feet, which can spread to your groin if you touch your feet and then subsequently touch your groin, and it&#8217;s called autoinoculation! Other ways to transmit tinea cruris include close body contact or sharing towels, clothes, or bedding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Recognizing_Signs_and_Symptoms_of_Tinea_Cruris\"><\/span>Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of Tinea Cruris\u00a0\u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tinea cruris presents as an itchy, red, and scaly rash. There might also be excoriation (superficial scratches, abrasions, or wounds caused by repetitive picking, scratching, or rubbing the skin) or maceration (prolonged exposure to moisture from itching), which can cause pain and secondary infections when bacteria makes its way through the skin.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Diagnosis_and_Treatment_Options_for_Tinea_Cruris\"><\/span>Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Tinea Cruris<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The rash is distinctive, so diagnosis is typically made clinically, with a patient history and visual inspection of the area. Most cases are treated with a topical antifungal cream or ointment, but an oral antifungal can be used for those with recurrent infections. To prevent a recurrence of candidiasis, wear loose, breathable clothing, keep your skin dry, and avoid sharing towels, clothes, or bedding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Importance_of_Taking_Charge_of_Your_Sexual_Health\"><\/span>The Importance of Taking Charge of Your Sexual Health<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prioritizing sexual health is important to our overall well-being because it not only impacts our physical health but our mental, emotional, and social lives as well. Being fully informed about potential infections is essential for effective prevention and management, which can help patients take charge of their health as well as safeguard their partners. Regular health screenings, transparent communication with healthcare professionals, and candid conversations with partners about STIs are crucial for maintaining a healthy sexual life and a healthier community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About_the_Author\"><\/span>About the Author&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/profile\/kelsey-lafayette\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kelsey LaFayette, DNP, ARNP, FNP-C,&nbsp;<\/a><\/strong>Nursing Content Manager at Osmosis from Elsevier, obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Nursing degree from Luther College in 2011. As an RN, she has a clinical background in medical and pulmonary inpatient units, urgent care, and critical care, and she obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree at the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2022. Throughout her career, Kelsey has had many opportunities to function in an education role by being a charge nurse, preceptor to new RNs and nursing students, as well as a Clinical Team Lead in charge of creating orientation programs and policies. Through these opportunities, Kelsey realized her ideal career path should focus on the education of nurses, nursing students, patients, families, and anyone else with a desire to learn. Kelsey serves as a manager on the Nursing Content team and has been able to work on various projects that fulfill her love of perpetual learning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Contributors\"><\/span>Contributors<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/profile\/ian-mannarino\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ian Mannarino, MD, MBA,<\/a><\/strong> Osmosis Faculty Reviewer<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"More_Articles_on_Sexually_Transmitted_Infections_STI\"><\/span>More Articles on Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-bacterial-infections\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">A Quick Reference Guide to Common Conditions Related to Sexual Health: Bacterial Infections<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-2-viruses\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">A Quick Reference Guide to Common Conditions Related to Sexual Health, Part 2: Viruses<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-male-reproductive-health-disorders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">A Quick Reference Guide to Male Reproductive Health Disorders<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-female-reproductive-health-disorders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">A Quick Reference Guide to Female Reproductive Health Disorders<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"References_Resources\"><\/span>References\u00a0&amp; Resources<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Barnes, P., Vieira, R., Harwood, J., &amp; Chauhan, M. (2017). Self-taken vaginal swabs versus clinician-taken for detection of candida and bacterial vaginosis: A case-control study in primary care. <em>British Journal of General Practice<\/em>, <em>67<\/em>(665), e824-e829. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3399\/bjgp17X693629\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.3399\/bjgp17X693629<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Parasites. Retrieved February 1, 2025, from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/parasites\/about\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/parasites\/about\/index.html<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Pubic lice (crabs). Retrieved February 2, 2025, from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/sti-awareness\/pbyt\/conversation.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/sti-awareness\/pbyt\/conversation.html<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). STD treatment guidelines: Trichomoniasis. Retrieved February 1, 2025, from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/std\/treatment-guidelines\/trichomoniasis.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/std\/treatment-guidelines\/trichomoniasis.htm<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Trichomoniasis. Retrieved February 12, 2025, from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/trichomoniasis\/about\/index.html#:~:text=What%20are%20the%20complications%20of,it%20to%20a%20sex%20partner\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/trichomoniasis\/about\/index.html#:~:text=What%20are%20the%20complications%20of,it%20to%20a%20sex%20partner<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). How to tell your partner you have an STD. Retrieved February 26, 2025, from <a href=\"https:\/\/health.clevelandclinic.org\/h-how-to-tell-your-partner-you-have-an-std\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/health.clevelandclinic.org\/h-how-to-tell-your-partner-you-have-an-std<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Pubic lice (crabs). Retrieved February 16, 2025, from <a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/diseases\/4522-pubic-lice-crabs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/diseases\/4522-pubic-lice-crabs<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Crouss, T., Sobel, J. D., Smith, K., &amp; Nyirjesy, P. (2018). Long-term outcomes of women with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis after a course of maintenance antifungal therapy. <em>Journal of Lower Genital Tract Disease<\/em>, <em>22<\/em>(4), 382-386. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1097\/LGT.0000000000000413\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1097\/LGT.0000000000000413<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ely, J. W., Rosenfeld, S., &amp; Seabury Stone, M. (2014). Diagnosis and management of tinea infections. <em>American Family Physician<\/em>, <em>90<\/em>(10), 702-710.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gupta, A. K., Foley, K. A., &amp; Versteeg, S. G. (2017). New antifungal agents and new formulations against dermatophytes. <em>Mycopathologia<\/em>, <em>182<\/em>(1-2), 127-141. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s11046-016-0045-0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s11046-016-0045-0<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>National Health Service. (n.d.). Balanitis. Retrieved February 2, 2025, from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/balanitis\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/balanitis\/<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>National Health Service. (n.d.). Pubic lice. Retrieved February 26, 2025, from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/pubic-lice\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/pubic-lice\/<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>National Health Service. (n.d.). Trichomoniasis. Retrieved February 26, 2025, from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/trichomoniasis\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/trichomoniasis\/<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nemours Foundation. (n.d.). Talking to your partner about STDs. KidsHealth. Retrieved February 26, 2025, from https:\/\/kidshealth.org\/en\/teens\/stds-talk.html\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Meites E. (2013). Trichomoniasis: The &#8220;neglected&#8221; sexually transmitted disease. <em>Infectious disease clinics of North America<\/em>, <em>27<\/em>(4), 755\u2013764. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.idc.2013.06.003\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.idc.2013.06.003<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Planned Parenthood. (n.d.). How do I tell my partner I have an STI? Retrieved February 26, 2025, from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.plannedparenthood.org\/planned-parenthood-orange-san-bernardino\/about-us\/blog\/how-do-i-tell-my-partner-i-have-an-sti\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.plannedparenthood.org\/planned-parenthood-orange-san-bernardino\/about-us\/blog\/how-do-i-tell-my-partner-i-have-an-sti<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sobel, J. D., &amp; Sobel, R. (2018). Current treatment options for vulvovaginal candidiasis caused by azole-resistant Candida species. <em>Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy<\/em>, <em>19<\/em>(9), 971-977. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080\/14656566.2018.1476490\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080\/14656566.2018.1476490<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>van der Meijden, W. I., Boffa, M. J., ter Harmsel, B., Kirtschig, G., Lewis, F., Moyal-Barracco, M., Tiplica, G.-S., &amp; Sherrard, J. (2022). 2021 European guideline for the management of vulval conditions. <em>Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 36<\/em>(4), 569-580. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/jdv.18102\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/jdv.18102<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>WomensHealth.gov. (n.d.). Vaginal yeast infections. Retrieved February 26, 2025, from <a href=\"https:\/\/womenshealth.gov\/a-z-topics\/vaginal-yeast-infections\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/womenshealth.gov\/a-z-topics\/vaginal-yeast-infections<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Understanding sexual health is crucial for our overall well-being. Learn about common STIs like trichomoniasis, pubic lice, and candidiasis, their symptoms, risks, and the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment. Empower yourself with knowledge to promote better health outcomes and awareness about sexual health issues!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":195,"featured_media":5785,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[27,10,21,22,30,16,37,32],"tags":[480,327,363,481,356,543,432,477,479,478,242],"class_list":["post-5739","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-medicine","category-clinical-skills","category-guides","category-health-and-wellness","category-np","category-do","category-pa","category-nursing","tag-candidiasis","tag-health-education","tag-infection-prevention","tag-medical-awareness","tag-patient-support","tag-pubic-lice","tag-public-health","tag-sexual-health","tag-stis","tag-trichomoniasis","tag-womens-health"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v23.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>A Quick Reference Guide to Common Conditions Related to Sexual Health, Part 3: Parasites and Fungi - Osmosis Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/a-quick-reference-guide-to-common-conditions-related-to-sexual-health-part-3-parasites-and-fungi\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"A Quick Reference Guide to Common Conditions Related to Sexual Health, Part 3: Parasites and Fungi - Osmosis Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Understanding sexual health is crucial for our overall well-being. 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