What are the symptoms of a belly button yeast infection?
The most common symptom of a belly button yeast infection is a bright red rash in the skin folds of your navel. The rash is typically extremely itchy. It may burn. You may also see scaling, swelling or a white discharge.
Belly button yeast infections don’t usually cause a smell or odor. But you may notice a musty smell if your yeast infection is due to a skin condition called intertrigo. Intertrigo is very common. It occurs due to a combination of heat, moisture and your skin rubbing together.
What causes a belly button yeast infection?
A yeast called Candida causes belly button yeast infections, or candidiasis. Candida yeast grow and thrive in warm, damp environments. Conditions that allow Candida to grow and thrive include:
- Wearing tight clothing.
- Not changing clothing often.
- Humid and hot weather.
- Poor hygiene.
- Skin conditions such as intertrigo and psoriasis.
Belly button yeast infections are more common in some groups of people. This includes people who:
- Are pregnant.
- Have overweight/obesity.
- Are taking antibiotics. Antibiotics can kill the bacteria that normally live on your skin. This allows Candida to grow and thrive.
- Are receiving cancer treatment like chemotherapy.
Belly button yeast infections are also more common in people with weakened immune systems. People with conditions such as HIV/AIDs or diabetes have a great chance of developing a yeast infection.
Are belly button yeast infections contagious?
Belly button yeast infections aren’t usually contagious. People with weakened immune systems should be more cautious around people with yeast infections. They do have a greater risk of catching an infection.
FAQs
A belly button yeast infection is a fungal skin infection caused by a yeast called Candida. It causes a bright red, itchy rash in your navel area. Candida grow and thrive in warm, dark environments. Treatment includes creams, ointment or powders.
What kills yeast infection in belly button? ›
To treat an infection
Keep the skin of your belly button clean and dry. Use an antifungal powder or cream to clear up a yeast infection. For a bacterial infection, your doctor might recommend using an antibiotic ointment. Some infections may require oral antibiotic treatment, incision and drainage of the cyst, or both.
What is the best antifungal cream for belly button infection? ›
OTC medication for belly button yeast infections
Your healthcare provider may recommend an antifungal cream, ointment or powder such as miconazole nitrate (Micatin, Monistat-Derm) or clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex) to apply directly to the skin of your belly button.
How to treat a belly button infection at home? ›
Home Remedies and Self-Care Strategies
- Keep the area clean and dry.
- Use a warm compress to help with pain or discomfort.
- Try an over-the-counter antifungal cream or ointment.
- Apply tea tree oil to the skin. One study found it may help kill yeast.
- Use a probiotic. ...
- Apply coconut oil.
Bacterial or fungal infections
Bacterial infections can cause a discharge that may have a disturbing smell. The discharge may be off-yellow or green in color and will often cause swelling and pain. A fungal infection or yeast infection may cause slightly different symptoms.
Can you use hydrogen peroxide on a belly button yeast infection? ›
Hydrogen peroxide can easily kill fungus on the surface level but is not intended for internal use. You can pour hydrogen peroxide over the infected area, but be aware it may sting and should bubble, especially if you have any open wounds.
What essential oils are good for yeast infections in the belly button? ›
Tea Tree Oil is an important natural ingredient in the body soap and body lotion because the oil effectively removes unwanted bacteria on the skin, bad belly button smell, and at the same time has a soothing effect on irritated skin and a red navel.
Should I go to the doctor if I have a belly button infection? ›
Call your doctor if you suspect a yeast infection in your belly button. They may suggest treating it with an over-the-counter, anti-fungal cream. They may also advise you to keep the area clean and dry.
What flares up a yeast infection? ›
The possible causes of infection are numerous. They range from changes in the physical environment, like sitting for too long in a wet bathing suit, to changes in life circ*mstances, like severe stress or lack of sleep. They are also more common during pregnancy and after a course of antibiotics.
How do you heal an infected belly button fast? ›
Wash the area with a mild soap and water 2 times a day. Don't use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, which can slow healing. You may cover the area with a thin layer of antibacterial ointment and a non-stick bandage. Replace the bandage as needed.
However, a smelly belly button may indicate an infection caused by bacteria or yeast. It could also be a sign of a navel stone or urachal cyst. All of these conditions would likely need treatment for the smell to go away.
What are the symptoms of too much yeast in your body? ›
Symptoms of candidiasis include:
- Red patch of skin (rash) with small, raised bumps (pustules).
- Itching.
- Burning sensation.
- vagin*l discharge (white or yellow).
- White patches or sores in your mouth that cause loss of taste or pain when eating or swallowing.
- Swelling (inflammation).
By paying attention to your belly button and practicing good hygiene, you can help prevent potential health issues and keep yourself feeling healthy and strong. Infection: When your belly button becomes red, swollen, and painful, it could be a sign of an infection.
How to clean a deep belly button? ›
Using warm water and mild soap, use a washcloth to gently clean around and just inside the belly button. Rinse with clean, warm water and dry with a towel to make sure that all water has been removed from the belly button. Showering or bathing regularly can help to prevent skin problems and odor.
How to get rid of a smelly belly button? ›
However, if you notice an unpleasant smell, you may need to consider deep cleaning techniques for your belly button. That's really no more than putting some extra attention into cleaning it. To do that, apply antibacterial soap to a washcloth or your finger and gently rub your belly button in the shower or bath.
What is anti fungal treatment for belly button? ›
It can cause a yeast infection known as candidiasis. Along with a white discharge, candidiasis can cover your navel with an itchy, red rash. Treatment: Use an antifungal cream such as miconazole nitrate (Micatin, Monistat-Derm) or clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex), and keep your navel clean and dry.
