Exploring the link between urinary infections and sex: facts and myths

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and their relationship with sexual activity are topics shrouded in misconceptions and inaccuracies. It’s important to understand the facts, so you can better manage and prevent possible UTIs and have a healthier, more comfortable intimate life.

The facts and myths behind UTIs

UTIs are caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract, leading to inflammation and discomfort. While having sex can increase the risk of UTIs by introducing bacteria to the urethra, it is important to understand that UTIs are not sexually transmitted infections.

Myth 1: UTIs only happen to women+

While women+ are at a higher risk due to anatomical differences, men+ are also susceptible to UTIs. Men’s+ longer urethra offers more defence against bacteria, but it does not provide complete immunity. About 12 percent of men+ will experience a urinary infection at least once in their lifetime.¹

Myth 2: UTIs can be passed to your partner

Another common misconception is that a person with UTIs can “infect” their partner through sex. This is not true – unlike the flu or a cold, UTIs do not spread through physical contact. They are caused when a bacterium, often E. coli, finds its way into the urinary tract. However, once an individual develops a UTI, it remains an isolated condition specific to them and is not transferable to their partner.²

Myth 3: Only sexually active individuals get UTIs

While sex can trigger UTIs by introducing bacteria into the vagina, it’s not the sole cause. Far from it. Pregnancy, kidney stones, a weak immune system, dehydration, the use of urinary catheters or poor genital hygiene can also increase the risk of developing a UTI.³

Myth 4: All sexually transmitted infections (STIs) cause UTIs

It’s important to distinguish between UTIs and STIs.⁴ While both involve the genital or urinary regions, STIs usually don’t lead to UTIs. However, certain bacteria from STIs can impact the urinary tract system, causing symptoms like urethral discomfort, discharge or painful urination which are very similar to UTIs. This has led to a considerable number of patients with STIs being diagnosed as having a UTI instead⁵ which is potentially problematic – an undiagnosed STI, for example, may develop into a more serious issue.

UTIs and contraception: what’s the link

Some birth control methods can make you more likely to get UTIs. Normally, your vagina has a mix of good bacteria that keep everything in balance. But, things like spermicides in birth control can throw this balance off, making it easier for bad bacteria to reproduce.

Also, using a diaphragm, especially with spermicide, can press on your urethra, making it harder to empty your bladder. This can also increase the chances of bacteria growing and causing an infection. The same concerns apply to spermicide-coated condoms.⁷

Practical sex tips to avoid urinary infections

1. Proper hygiene before and after sex

It’s really important to stay clean in your private areas, both before and after sex. This helps stop bad bacteria from sneaking into your urethra when you’re getting busy. Make sure to always switch condoms or give a good clean to the penis or sex toys if you’re moving from backdoor to front door action.^{8, 9}

2. Use gentle lubricants

Picking a lube that doesn’t have added irritants is a smart choice to lower your chances of getting irritated and possibly getting a UTI. Go for lubes that are water-based or silicone-based.¹⁰ They’re gentle on your body and don’t mess with the good bacteria or harm your sensitive areas down there.

3. Pee after sex

Making it a habit to pee after sex is a simple but powerful way to keep infections at bay. It helps wash away any bacteria that might have gotten into your urethra during intimate moments. This step can help in reducing the risk of getting an infection.¹¹

When to seek professional guidance

If you keep having UTI problems, it’s a good idea to check in with your doctor. They’ll take a good look at your health history and might suggest tests to figure out why you’re getting UTIs so often. The goal is to find the main reason for the infections and decide the best way to treat them.

For example, you might get preventive or prophylactic antibiotics.¹² These antibiotics, taken either before or after sex, help prevent recurring infections. Whether you should use these drugs depends on your personal health situation.

Knowledge is power

When it comes to health, knowing more gives you power. In the context of urinary health and sex, following simple but effective prevention tactics can make a huge difference. Besides the measures we explained here, head over to our detailed guide to find out more about other dietary and lifestyle adjustments that can also help break the viscous UTI cycle.

And to keep your urinary health in an especially great shape, consider Donna’s MINSEPIN URIRELIEF. This supplement is packed with D-mannose, common heather, silver birch and berberine – ingredients that are known for supporting urinary health and can help soothe the discomfort from simple UTIs. Learn more details on our dedicated page.

REFERENCES

1. https://www.uristat.com/about-uti/uti-facts-myths
2. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/debunking-urinary-tract-infection-myths
3. https://www.news-medical.net/health/Mythbusting3b-Urinary-Tract-Infections-(UTIs).aspx#2
4. https://urgentcareomaha.com/uti-or-std-how-to-tell-the-difference/
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26063863/
6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3999367/
7. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8781467/
8. https://www.webmd.com/sex-relationships/ss/slideshow-sexual-hygiene
9. https://www.insider.com/guides/health/sex-relationships/what-is-good-sexual-hygiene
10. https://www.pediatrix.com/about/for-media/news/the-best-lubricants-for-uti-prevention
11. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/uti-urinating-after-sexual-intercourse
12. https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/2040239-overview?form=fpf#a3