How Do You Get Jock Itch?

People who become infected with jock itch (tinea cruris) often wonder how they contracted the infection in the first place. There are several things that can cause jock itch. Being aware of these risk factors can aid you in avoiding jock itch altogether.

Excess Moisture

Jock itch loves to live in warm damp places, especially the folds of the skin. A common cause of jock itch is allowing the groin area to remain moist for long periods of time. Often this is due to athletic gear that prevents proper ventilation and allows sweat to collect around the genitals. Another issue is failing to fully dry the area after taking a shower or bath. Wearing a wet bathing suit for long periods of time can also cause jock itch.

Tight Clothing

Wearing tight underwear or pants often results in unnecessary friction in the groin area. This can cause skin abrasions that lead to the onset of jock itch. Additionally, tight clothing doesn’t allow for good ventilation of the genitals which may lead to trapped moisture. Men should wear cotton boxer shorts and women should wear loose cotton panties that absorb moisture and allow air to circulate. Avoid wearing tight clothing for extended periods of time.

Contact with Infected Person or Object

The fungus that causes jock itch feeds on and lives in the dead skin cells on the dermis. These skin cells can flake off onto objects where the fungus remains active. Touching your groin area with an infected object can lead to jock itch as does skin to skin contact with an infected person. Men are more likely to get jock itch and transfer it to their female partners. However, women can transmit the infection to their sexual partners also.

Other Fungal Infections

If you have fungal infections on other parts of your body, such as athlete’s foot, you are more likely to get jock itch. This is typically due to transference of the fungi from one part of the body to another due to poor hygiene. For example, you may touch your infected foot and then your groin area without washing your hands.

Treating Jock Itch

It is not always easy to avoid getting jock itch. Luckily the infection is easily treatable. The standard course of action is to use an antifungal ointment on the affected area. Your doctor may prescribe one or recommend an over-the-counter product you can use. The problem with many of these products is they can cause side effects. If you want to get rid of jock itch fast without the drama of side effects, read our reviews of top jock itch remedies.