A yeast infection can increase a woman's risk for STDs and can pose some risk for her sexual partners. Understanding why this happens is part of your protection plan.

Yeast infections are not sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), although they share many of the same symptoms, such as vaginal itching, burning, pain, and discharge. Given the prevalence of STDs and yeast infections, it's not unreasonable for a woman to wonder if a yeast infection may increase her risk of other vaginal infections.

For the most part, though, yeast infections aren't associated with developing an STD. "In general, yeast infections do not increase the risk of contracting STDs," explains Rosanna Gray-Swain, MD, a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist in St. Louis, Mo. "However, if there are scratches on the vulva, this can increase the [STD infection] risk." By scratching to relieve vaginal itching, you may inadvertently create microscopic tears in the skin that allow bacteria or viruses that cause STDs to enter your body more easily.

Of particular concern is HIV/AIDS, which is most often spread through sexual activity. HIV/AIDS can also be transmitted through direct contact of bodily fluids with an open wound or a tear in the skin. One study looked at women who were not HIV positive, but who were in a sexual relationship with someone who was. Researchers found that the women who eventually contracted HIV were more likely to have had yeast infections. They concluded that women in high-risk relationships should be taught how to prevent yeast infections — and to treat them quickly when they do occur — to decrease their risk of HIV infection.

Since yeast infections can irritate the vaginal lining even if you haven't been scratching, it's a good idea to use condoms if you plan to be sexually active while you have a yeast infection and don't know the HIV status of your partner. Of course, this is wise advice even when you don't have a yeast infection.

Yeast Infection: Putting Sexual Activity on Hold

Even though you may not feel your sexiest when you have a yeast infection, there's no medical reason not to engage in safe sex. Keep in mind though that the vaginal itching and burning associated with yeast infections may make sex uncomfortable.

Another thing that might hinder you from having sex is the treatment method you're using. "If a woman is using a cream therapy to treat an infection, it's best to delay intercourse until the therapy is complete, as sex can essentially push the medication out of the vagina," says Dr. Gray-Swain. "Certain vaginal creams may also be irritating to a man's penis."

Yeast Infection: Putting Partners at Risk

In general, yeast infections aren't frequently spread from one partner to another during sex. Even so, there are situations where it does happen.

Although men don't usually develop penile discharge, it does appear that up to 15 percent of men may get an uncomfortable rash on their penis if they have unprotected sex with a woman who has a yeast infection. The rate seems to be highest among men who are not circumcised.

In lesbian relationships, it's possible that yeast infections may be spread from one partner to another, although the issue has not yet been studied extensively.

If your partner (male or female) begins to experience any signs of a yeast infection, such as itching, burning, redness, or discharge, he or she should see a doctor to confirm the diagnosis and begin treatment.

Although yeast infections aren't dangerous for most people, they can cause discomfort such as vaginal itching and burning. Decisions regarding sexual activity during a yeast infection ultimately depend on what you and your partner feel most comfortable doing.

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