Urinary tract infection after intercourse

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Specialist general medicine

Urinary tract infection (UTI) affects many, with women being particularly vulnerable. The infection occurs when bacteria get into the urethra and bladder. A frequently discussed question is the connection between UTIs and intercourse. But why does the risk of urinary tract infection increase just after intercourse?

Why do you get a urinary tract infection after intercourse?

Urinary tract infection (UTI) after intercourse, often referred to as "honeymoon cystitis", can occur due to several interacting factors. These include:

The physical movements that occur during intercourse. Bacterial transmission from nearby intimate areas. The length of the urethra, which is shorter in women.

These factors work together to increase the risk of bacteria penetrating the urethra, which in turn can lead to an infection after sexual activity.

Bacterial transmission

Intercourse can cause bacteria, especially from the rectum, to be transferred to the urethra. Because the rectum has many bacteria, including Escherichia coli (E. coli), there is a risk that these bacteria are transferred to the urethra during intercourse.

Anatomical structure of the woman

Women's urethras are shorter compared to men's, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. This anatomical difference makes women more susceptible to urinary tract infection after intercourse.

Risk factors that can increase the risk of UTI during intercourse

Urinary tract infections after intercourse can be affected by several factors. Among these, it includes a new sexual partner, the frequency of sexual activity as well as the choice of contraceptives.

Each factor contributes in its own way to the increased risk of UTI. By being aware of these risk factors, you can better understand and avoid risks that can lead to the development of a urinary tract infection.

New sexual partner

Having a new sexual partner can increase the risk of UTI. This may be due to exposure to new strains of bacteria that the body is not used to.

Frequent intercourse

Having frequent intercourse can increase the risk of contracting a urinary tract infection. Every time you have sex, the risk of bacteria being transferred to the urethra increases.

Contraceptive

Certain contraceptives, such as spermicides, pessaries, or condoms with spermicides, are all contraceptives that can increase the risk of UTIs. These contraceptives can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.

How to avoid urinary tract infection after intercourse?

To reduce the risk of urinary tract infection after intercourse, there are several preventive measures you can take. These include, among other things, urinating after intercourse and maintaining good intimate hygiene.

By following these recommendations, you can actively reduce the likelihood of developing a urinary tract infection in connection with sexual activity.

Pee after intercourse

Urinating after intercourse can help flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urethra during intercourse, which can reduce the risk of UTI.

Good hygiene

Wash the abdomen with care and preferably not more often than once a day. If you wash often, and especially with soap, it can lead to skin and mucous membranes becoming dehydrated and you becoming more susceptible to bacterial attack. When you wash and dry yourself, remember that it should always be done from front to back, this to reduce the risk of intestinal bacteria reaching the urethra.

Avoid certain contraceptives

If you are prone to UTIs, it may be worth considering contraceptives other than those that have been linked to an increased risk of UTIs, such as pessaries and condoms with spermicides.

It is important to note that there are alternatives in the form of condoms without spermicides, which may be a suitable choice for those who are sensitive to UTIs. But it must not be forgotten that condom use is not only a matter of contraception, but also an important protection against sexually transmitted diseases. If you choose not to use a condom, protection against these diseases is reduced, which can lead to other health risks.

Treatment for UTI and when to seek care

Many people who get a urinary tract infection after intercourse experience improvement within three days, and some become symptom-free within a week without antibiotic treatment. If the symptoms persist, you should seek medical attention for help with antibiotic treatment. If you develop a fever or pain in the flanks (back area), you should immediately seek physical care as it could be pyelonephritis.

To get fast treatment, here at Recetas Medicas you can fill out our health form and get treatment for your urinary tract infection within 15 minutes.

Symptoms of UTI to watch out for

Do you experience pain when you urinate? Feeling of having to urinate all the time, mole pain in the lower part of the stomach or blood in the urine? These are signs of urinary tract infection and it is recommended that you seek medical advice. Do not hesitate to contact us for advice.

The importance of taking urinary tract infection symptoms seriously

If you suspect you have a urinary tract infection, you should try to drink plenty of water and use painkillers if the symptoms are mild and there is no fever. If you experience more severe problems, we can help you with antibiotic treatment.

Although the risk of serious complications from a urinary tract infection is low, you should take your symptoms seriously and seek medical care if you have severe symptoms. In case of fever and flank/back pain, you should seek emergency care.

Conclusion

Knowing about the connection between intercourse and urinary tract infection can be good for reducing the risk of contracting it. By knowing the risk factors and taking preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of urinary tract infection after intercourse.

If you suspect you have a urinary tract infection, it's important to seek treatment quickly to prevent complications. Get treatment for urinary tract infection here.

If you want to learn more about urinary tract infection, you can visit our page with information and advice on the subject.

Published: 2023-08-25