Sexual activity while experiencing a urinary tract infection (UTI): Is it advisable?

Sexual activity with a urinary tract infection (UTI): Is it risky?

Sex during a urinary tract infection (UTI) is generally not recommended due to the potential for discomfort and the risk of worsening the infection or delaying healing. Sexual activity can introduce or spread bacteria in the urinary tract, causing irritation and increasing the risk of complications.

To reduce the risk of complications or future UTIs associated with sexual activity, the following precautions are advised:

1. Urinate before and after sex: This helps flush out bacteria that may have entered the urethra during intercourse, reducing the risk of infection or worsening an existing UTI.

2. Maintain good genital hygiene: Washing the genital area before sex can help lower the bacterial load and prevent bacteria from traveling into the urinary tract.

3. Increase fluid intake: Drinking plenty of water dilutes urine and promotes more frequent urination, which helps flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.

4. Avoid irritants: Avoid use of non-lubricated latex condoms, spermicides, douches, and feminine deodorants, as these can cause irritation or upset the vaginal microbiome, raising UTI risk.

5. Wear breathable cotton underwear and loose clothing: This reduces moisture and bacterial growth around the genital area.

6. Discuss birth control options with healthcare providers: Some contraceptive methods may increase UTI risk. Alternatives may be recommended if recurrent UTIs are a problem.

If you have a UTI, it is important to complete any prescribed antibiotic treatment and consult your healthcare provider about the safety of sexual activity during your infection. If symptoms like burning during urination or pelvic pain worsen or persist after sex, seek medical advice promptly.

It's a myth that wearing a condom or avoiding penetrative sex in favor of oral or manual sex can prevent UTIs. In fact, sex can force bacteria from other places around the genital area into the urethra, increasing the risk of developing a UTI.

People who have anal sex should use a condom and change it after penetrating the anus and before penetrating any other body part. Some people may need alternatives to barrier methods due to allergies; consult a doctor about these options.

Probiotics may help maintain a balance of healthy bacteria in the body, including in the urinary tract. UTIs are not sexually transmitted and are not contagious. If experiencing symptoms of a UTI, it is important to seek medical attention. Left untreated, severe UTIs can cause serious complications.

Wiping front to back after urinating or having a bowel movement can prevent the spread of bacteria from the anus. UTIs are more common in females due to a shorter urinary tract and the urethra's proximity to the anus. A sudden increase in sex, especially with a new partner, can cause a UTI in some females (known as "honeymoon cystitis").

A UTI is a bacterial infection that occurs when bacteria enter the urethra and travel to the bladder or other parts of the urinary tract. It is not a myth that these practices can make sex safe when a person has a UTI. Instead, taking the aforementioned precautions can help reduce the risk of complications or recurrent infections.

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