References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
Jock itch (tinea cruris) is a common fungal skin infection that affects the groin, inner thighs and buttocks. It’s not an STI — it’s caused by the same type of fungus that causes athlete’s foot. Warm, moist environments like sweaty groins make ideal conditions for the fungus to grow. It’s itchy and uncomfortable but easily treated.
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Symptoms
- Red, itchy rash in the groin or inner thighs
- Ring-shaped with raised edges
- Flaking, peeling or cracking skin
- Burning sensation
- May spread to buttocks
- Usually spares the scrotum and penis
Causes
| Factor | Detail |
|---|---|
| Dermatophyte fungi | Same family as athlete’s foot and ringworm |
| Warm, moist environment | Sweat, tight clothing, exercise |
| Spreading from feet | Can transfer athlete’s foot to groin via hands or towels |
| Shared towels or clothing | Possible transmission route |
Is It an STI?
No. Jock itch is a fungal skin infection, not sexually transmitted. However, it can sometimes be confused with genital conditions that are STIs, so if you’re unsure, seek assessment.
Treatment
- Antifungal cream (clotrimazole, miconazole, terbinafine)
- Available from pharmacies without prescription
- Apply for 2-4 weeks, continue for 1 week after symptoms resolve
- Keep the area clean and dry
- Treat athlete’s foot at the same time if present
Prevention
- Keep the groin area dry
- Change underwear daily
- Wear loose, breathable fabrics
- Don’t share towels
- Treat athlete’s foot promptly
- Dry groin area before feet after showering
When to See a Doctor
- Not improving after 2 weeks of treatment
- Spreading despite treatment
- Severe or blistering rash
- Uncertainty about whether it’s an STI
Read more: Skin rashes and STIs | Balanitis | Red spots and STIs
Frequently Asked Questions
Can jock itch be confused with herpes?
Unlikely — jock itch is a spreading red rash; herpes causes painful blisters. A clinician can tell them apart.
Is jock itch contagious?
Mildly — through shared towels or direct contact. Not via casual contact.
Can women get jock itch?
Yes, though it’s more common in men.
Related reading
- Cold Sores vs Syphilis Sores: How to Tell the Difference
- Do STIs Always Have Symptoms?
- How Different STIs Affect Vaginal Discharge
- How to Identify Syphilis Sores (Chancres)
- Is My Rash From HIV or Something Else?
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
