Do Antibiotics Cause Yeast Infections?

Antibiotics have been a game changer in medicine since they were first discovered as a potential treatment for syphilis in 1909. [1] Now, these “wonder drugs,” as they’re often called, are widely used to treat a broad range of conditions.

As valuable as antibiotics may be, they’re also associated with a host of side effects—namely, digestive issues like diarrhea and nausea. [2] But do antibiotics cause yeast infections as well?

In short: They can. [2] Let’s have a look at the link between antibiotics and yeast infections, and the steps you can take to maintain your health.

What are Antibiotics—and When are they Prescribed?

Put simply, antibiotics are powerful medications that work to either destroy bacteria or keep bacterial cells from multiplying (and worsening a health condition). [3] While they don’t treat viral infections like hepatitis or measles, they can be a boon for destroying or suppressing the bacteria behind:

• Strep throat
• Bacterial vaginosis (BV)
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Bacterial pneumonia
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

What are Yeast Infections?

Yeast infections are common health conditions, and are often caused by candida overgrowth. [4] Candida is a type of yeast cell that exists naturally in and on the body, primarily the:

• Skin
• Digestive system
• Vagina
• Penis [5]
• Oral mucous membranes

Normally, yeast remains in balance with the rest of the body’s microflora and exists without notice; it also plays a pivotal role in digestion and nutrient absorption. [6] However, certain triggers—including humid conditions, skin damage, pregnancy, or a compromised immune system—can cause yeast cells to multiply. [4, 8] This translates to candida overgrowth that may lead to a number of uncomfortable symptoms.

Do Antibiotics Cause Yeast Infections?

Antibiotics can cause yeast infections, with an emphasis on “can.” [2,4] In other words, you may come down with one after a course of antibiotics but it’s certainly not a guarantee. Plus, there are a handful of ways you can decrease the risks of developing yeast infections—a topic we’ll dive into below.

First, though: Why are you more vulnerable to yeast infections after antibiotics?

While antibiotics target illness-causing bacteria, they also diminish the healthy bacteria in your body, which are key to maintaining an ideal ratio of good bacteria and candida. [7]

What are the Symptoms of Yeast Infections?

Whether you’re presently on antibiotics or have just finished a course of them, it’s vital to keep an eye out for the symptoms of a yeast infection: It may cause more serious health complications if left untreated.

Symptoms of Vaginal Yeast Infections

While many yeast infections can occur without noticeable symptoms, the primary signs of a vaginal yeast infection include [7]:

• Burning during sexual intercourse or urination
• Irritation and itchiness in the vaginal area
• Vaginal pain and tenderness
• Swelling and redness

For many, vaginal yeast infections, like vaginal candidiasis, announce themselves predominately through the thick, white, chunky (though odorless) discharge it causes. Others may also experience a vaginal rash. [7]

Symptoms of Male Yeast Infections/Candida Balanitis

Yeast infections may disproportionately affect women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB), but men and people assigned male at birth (AMAB) are susceptible to yeast infections as well. [8] Their symptoms are similar to vaginal yeast infections and include [5]:

• Itching, irritation, and burning under the foreskin and around the penile head
• Foul-smelling discharge that may resemble cottage cheese
• Blisters and sores

Can a man spread a yeast infection to a woman? Yes, yeast infections can be transmitted between sexual partners. For this reason, sex is also generally recommended against while someone has a genital yeast infection, as well as during treatment. [9]

Yeast infections can also occur in the mouth (oral thrush), on the corners of the mouth, in the navel, and even in the nail beds. [4]

How are Yeast Infections Treated?

It’s important to book an appointment with your healthcare professional if you suspect you may have a yeast infection, even if you haven’t taken antibiotics in years. Why? Some of the symptoms of a yeast infection overlap with signs of an STI. In other words, diagnosing and treating a yeast infection on your own may leave another medical issue untreated.

That aside, a healthcare provider typically prescribes one or more of the following after a yeast infection diagnosis [4]:

• Antifungal ointment, lotion, or cream
• Oral anti-yeast medication
• Medicated suppositories

Can You Prevent Yeast Infections?

Certain health conditions require antibiotics. This means you may not be able to forgo taking a round (or multiple) rounds of them. However, you can take steps toward preventing yeast infections in general:

• For women and people AFAB – Avoid douching, scented tampons and pads, and feminine deodorants. Be sure to also change out of damp or wet clothes (like your workout clothes or swimsuit) as soon as possible. [9] And should you find yourself having recurrent yeast infections? Consider being evaluated for diabetes: High blood sugar/unmanaged diabetes can increase your chances of developing excess Candida albicans. [9] Notify your healthcare provider if you are prone to yeast infections with antibiotic use. Sometimes a healthcare provider will consider prescribing a medication for the yeast to take at certain times during the antibiotic treatment. Your healthcare provider may also recommend supplements such as probiotics while on antibiotics.
• For men and people AMAB – Prioritize practicing good hygiene to stave off yeast infections and keep the groins dry (such as changing out of sweaty workout gear before leaving the gym). [5] The Cleveland Clinic also recommends pulling back the foreskin when bathing to thoroughly clean the area. [5]

Lastly, everyone may benefit tremendously from following a diverse diet that brims with micronutrients: Research indicates that doing so may promote intestinal health and decrease candida. [10] Meanwhile, bear in mind that healthy practices as a whole may save you from having to take antibiotics in the first place and leave you primed for the joys of life.

Find Peace of Mind with Everlywell

Whether they’re caused by antibiotics or another factor, yeast infections can cause symptoms that range from mildly bothersome to downright painful.

Rest assured that you don’t have to suffer alone. Everlywell offers a suite of discreet at-home lab tests you can take from the comfort of your home, as well as an online platform where you can receive consultations for yeast infection prescriptions online, STI care, and more.

1. The History of Antibiotics. Microbiology Society. Accessed May 14, 2024. Medical Citation URL.
2. Antibiotics. Cleveland Clinic. Accessed May 14, 2024. Medical Citation URL.
3. How Do Antibiotics Work? Healthy Children.org. Accessed May 15, 2024. Medical Citation URL.
4. Yeast Infection. Johns Hopkins Medicine. Accessed May 15, 2024. Medical Citation URL.
5. Male Yeast Infection. Cleveland Clinic. Accessed May 15, 2024. Medical Citation URL.
6. Candida: What is it and how does it affect you? Gastrointestinal Specialists, Inc. Accessed May 14, 2024. Medical Citation URL.
7. Yeast Infection (Vaginal). Mayo Clinic. Accessed May 14, 2024. Medical Citation URL.
8. Yeast Infection. Yale Medicine. Accessed May 14, 2024. Medical Citation URL.
9. Vaginal Yeast Infection. Cleveland Clinic. Accessed May 14, 2025. Medical Citation URL.
10. Healthy Diet and Lifestyle Improve the Gut Microbiota and Help Combat Fungal Infection. Microorganisms. Accessed May 14, 2024. Medical Citation URL.