Yeast infection groin rash: what to know

Yeast can thrive where heat, moisture and friction collect, including the crease between the thigh and groin. The skin may look red or darker than usual and feel itchy, sore or cracked. The rash can extend toward the vulva. Ringworm, chafing and other infections can look alike, so groin appearance is not enough for a diagnosis.

Rinse gently, dry the fold carefully and wear clean, loose-fitting underwear. Change after sweating and avoid fragranced washes, tight clothing and scratching. Keep towels personal. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether antifungal treatment is appropriate and which formulation fits the affected skin.

Book an appointment if the rash is spreading, repeatedly returning, very sore or unchanged after appropriate advice. Seek prompt care for pus, open sores, fever, rapidly increasing redness or swelling, or pain when passing urine.

Ask whether the rash is in a skin fold, whether the vulva is involved, how to distinguish yeast from ringworm, and when improvement should be reviewed.