Written by Editorial Team | Updated : November 2, 2018 9:30 PM IST
When it comes to genital infections it is usually thought that women are the worst sufferers, but in reality, men also to have to face the wrath of genital infections.This is why maintaining good genital hygiene is necessary. But at times, just the hygiene isn’t enough there could be a number of physiological problems that could lead to penile infections and trigger recurrent episodes. Here are a few of them:
Weak immune system: In men, the penile urethra is a primary infection site for sexually transmitted diseases. But the urethra also contains a good number of healthy bacteria which can wade off an infection. In fact, a lot of research is been done to stimulate immunity at this mucosal site to prevent the transmission of HIV-1 [1]. However, for men with low immunity due to various illness or physiological factors, this balance of healthy bacteria can go haywire and make the urethra weak and unable to restrict a bacterial attack, making a man prone to recurrent penile infections.
Sex with partners infected by yeast: Now, yeast infections are not as dangerous and potent as the STDs but are contagious in nature. Having sex with women who are prone to a candida infection can make one infected with the same bacteria. If the female partner fails to get treatment for the same, chances are the man will end up having the infection repeatedly after every intercourse [2].
Antibiotics: Some antibiotic use also makes the balance of the bacteria go haywire in the penile area and can set one up for infections like balanitis, itching and swelling of the head of the penis. This is more common in people who suffer from conditions that could lead immunity issues like diabetes, autoimmune disorders, etc [2].
Alcohol abuse: Alcohol can lead to a decline in sexual functions like erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, etc. But before one reaches that state, it also leads to infections in the penis by setting one up of fungal or yeast infection disrupting the bacteria in the urethra that prevents bacterial infection.
Diet high in sugar: One reason why people with diabetes suffer from recurrent penile infections is that they have high blood glucose level which is responsible for setting up the ideal environment for bacteria to thrive and grow in the genital areas [2]. Too much sugar in the body makes the genital areas moist and damp making it an ideal environment for bacteria to grow.
Damaged skin: Not that a lot of data support this, but any kind of damage to the foreskin of the penis either due to excessive itching, dryness or soreness can make it prone to recurrent genital infections as it becomes an inviting ground for bacteria to thrive.
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