‘Crotch rot’ may infect hundreds of thousands of Brits making one easy underwear mistake

Brits itching their bits might want to be on the look out for a nasty infection that can affect the genitals – horrible ‘crotch rot’ could affect many Brits once in their life

A doctor has warned Brits to watch out for their bits with a grim “crotch rot” infection potentially on the loose.

The yucky contagious infection is caused by the tinea corporis ringworm responsible for ringworm. Unsurprisingly given its favourite bodily prey, the virus thrives in warm, moist environments and can bring on painful and unpleasant rashes, turning the skin red, scaly and itchy according to skincare specialist Dr Samuel Choudhury

Dr Choudhury brought attention to the virus, also known as ‘jock itch’ on TikTok. He said the virus can often spread from the feet to the crotch, so good luck if you are that flexible, or if you put your underpants on while having bare feet.

Dr Choudhury added: “So this is what you need to do to avoid jock itch [crotch infection]. Not wearing underwear is not the solution, but wearing your socks first is. It acts as a barrier so you contain the infection.”

Those who repeatedly get the grim infection should “think about” the state of their feet, said the doc.

Dr Choudhury’s advice has been backed up by NHS guidance, which says fungal groin infections are typically triggered by reinfection from other parts of the body, like the hands or feet.

Young men are most vulnerable, along with individuals who work in hot, humid environments, wear tight clothing, or struggle with obesity. The fungi naturally lives on our skin and typically don’t cause problems, but it thrives in conditions most people experience daily.

Sweat-soaked clothes after exercising, constant exposure to moisture, and poor hygiene can all contribute to an outbreak.

As long as the fungal spores are living on the skin, the infection remains contagious. Those with the infection should wash the affected area daily and then dry it thoroughly and avoid scratching.

If symptoms persist, doctors will typically prescribe an anti- fungal cream such as hydrocortisone and/or an oral anti-fungal.

Dr Choudhury warned foot ringworm is incredibly common, with 70% of people getting it “at least once in their life” – and around 20% suffering the same infection in the groin area.

The NHS said people with ringworm should see a doctor if it “has not improved after using antifungal medicine recommended by a pharmacist”, if it is on the scale, or for those with a weakened immune system.

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