Can You Get A Yeast Infection in Your Belly Button?

February 25, 2023

Yeast infections are a common fungal infection that can affect various parts of the body. While people are often familiar with vaginal yeast infections, fewer know it is possible to get a yeast infection in other parts of the body, including the belly button.

In this article, we will discuss what yeast infections are, what causes yeast infections in the belly button, how to identify and treat a yeast infection in the belly button, and some natural remedies that may help to treat it from home.

What Are Yeast Infections?

Candida yeast

Yeast infections, also known as candidiasis, are caused by an overgrowth of a type of fungus called Candida. (1) Candida is naturally present in the body, but when the balance of bacteria and yeast in the body is disrupted, Candida can multiply and cause an infection.

Yeast infections can occur in various parts of the body, including the mouth, throat, genital area, and skin. They are most commonly associated with vaginal infections, but they can also affect other areas of the body and can occur in both women and men.

To learn more about yeast infections read our blog "What Is Candidia Albicans?"

What Causes Yeast Infections?

Candida overgrowth is the cause of yeast infection. Candida exists naturally in the body but is usually kept at healthy levels by the beneficial bacteria in our gut microbiome. (2) If something causes the beneficial bacteria in our gut to die off, it can allow the opportunistic Candida yeast to grow beyond normal levels.

Several factors can disrupt a healthy microbial balance and lead to an overgrowth of Candida in the body. Some of the most common causes include:

Antibiotics: Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the body, leading to an overgrowth of Candida.
Weakened immune system: A weakened immune system can make it easier for Candida to multiply and cause an infection.
Tight clothing: Tight-fitting clothing can create a warm and moist environment, promoting yeast growth.
Poor hygiene: Poor hygiene can allow bacteria and yeast to thrive on the skin, leading to an infection.
Diabetes: People with diabetes are more prone to yeast infections due to high blood sugar levels.

Can You Get A Yeast Infection in Your Belly Button?

belly button yeast infection

Yeast infections commonly begin in the gut and spread to other body parts. However, they can occur anywhere in or on the body. When forming on the skin, Candida infections are usually caused by excess moisture and a lack of sanitation. (3)

Yeast infections in the belly button are relatively uncommon but can occur in people of all ages. Like other forms of Candida on the skin, this infection is most commonly caused by poor hygiene or excessive moisture.

The belly button is an area that is often overlooked when washing or showering, making it a prime location for yeast to grow. In addition, people who are overweight, have a deep belly button, or have excessive hair in the area may be more prone to yeast infections in their belly button.

Yeast Infection in Belly Button Symptoms

The symptoms of a yeast infection in the belly button are similar to those of other yeast infections. They may include:

Itching or burning in the belly button area
Redness and inflammation
Pain or discomfort
A foul-smelling discharge
Crusting or scaling of the skin around the belly button

If left untreated, a yeast infection in the belly button can spread to other areas of the body, leading to more severe symptoms. (4)

How to Identify Yeast Infection in The Belly Button

To identify a yeast infection in your belly button, look for the symptoms listed above. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should make an appointment with your doctor to get a proper diagnosis. Your doctor may take a swab of the infected area to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.

Yeast Infection in Belly Button Treatment

The treatment for a yeast infection in the belly button typically involves antifungal medication. In addition, your doctor may prescribe a topical cream or oral medication to help clear up the infection.

In addition to medication, you should also take steps to keep the area clean and dry. This may involve using a mild soap to clean the area, drying it thoroughly after showering and avoiding tight-fitting clothing.

Home Remedies for Yeast Infection in Your Belly Button

natural remedies for belly button yeast infection

While antifungal medication is considered the most effective way to treat a yeast infection in your belly button, there are also some natural remedies that may provide relief. Here are a few options to consider:

Apple cider vinegar: Dilute some apple cider vinegar (ACV) with a small amount of water and apply it to the infected area with a cotton ball. Apple cider vinegar has natural antifungal properties that may help to kill the yeast. (5)
Tea tree oil: Mixing a few drops of tea tree oil with coconut oil and applying it to the infected area may help kill the Candida overgrowth. Tea tree oil has natural antifungal properties that can help clear the infection. Coconut oil also has antifungal properties, so it can work in combination with tea tree oil to eliminate the yeast infection in your belly button. (6)
Garlic: Crush up a few cloves of garlic and mix them with coconut oil. Apply the mixture to the infected area for 10-15 minutes before washing it off. Garlic has antifungal properties that can help to kill the yeast and will also work together with coconut oil's antifungal properties. (7)
Yogurt: Apply plain, unsweetened yogurt to the infected area and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before washing it off. The live cultures in yogurt can help to restore the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the body. (8)
Probiotics: You can also apply probiotic powder to the area, allowing it to sit for several minutes before washing it off. Some probiotics are sold as powders, or you can simply open up a capsule and pour out the probiotics. Taking probiotics internally as a dietary supplement may also be beneficial for restoring good bacteria in your gut microbiome, which can help you fight off the infection—especially if the root cause is dysbiosis. (9)

It's important to note that while natural remedies may be effective, they are often not as effective as antifungal medication and should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. If you have a severe or persistent infection, it's important to seek medical attention.

Getting Rid of an Underlying Candida Infection

Candida cleanse tonic

In some cases, a Candida infection on the skin, mouth, or another area of the body arises because of a systemic Candida infection in the gut. Candida infections often begin in the gut and spread throughout the body. So, eliminating Candida at the root may be necessary to treat the infection, especially if it is recurring.

Our Candida Cleanse tonic may help to eliminate fungal organisms and yeast in the digestive tract.† It includes seven well-researched herbs that work synergistically to eliminate Candida.†

Getting rid of Candida overgrowth is an involved process and often requires modifications in diet and lifestyle until the infection is cleared. Our Complete Candida Cleanse Protocol guides you through the steps needed to eliminate Candida.

Of course, if you have a persistent infection, you should seek guidance from your doctor on how to eliminate the Candida overgrowth.

Summary

Yeast infections can affect various parts of the body, including the belly button. Poor hygiene, excessive moisture, and other factors can contribute to a yeast infection in this area.

If you notice symptoms of an infection in your belly button, it's important to seek medical attention to get a proper diagnosis and treatment. Antifungal medication is typically the most effective treatment, but natural remedies may provide some relief as well. By taking steps to keep the area clean and dry, you can help to prevent future infections and promote overall skin health.