An infection of the urinary tract, also known as UTI, is when bacteria enter the urinary tract, which includes the bladder, urethra and kidneys. Anyone can get UTI but women are more likely to develop UTI; however, women are more likely to suffer from the condition due to sexual contact. Sexual activity can be among the main causes. Any contact, even to the genital tract, could trigger bacteria to spread into the urinary tract.
UTIs can be uncomfortable and symptoms include burning while urinating or discomfort in the abdomen. It is important to be aware that it is possible to avoid with simple steps like showering after sexual activity, taking enough fluids and maintaining a healthy plus clean body.
Many factors increase the likelihood of developing UTI which is just one of the factors. Based on a study from the year 2019 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or CDC study estimates that between 50% and 60% of females will suffer from a UTI at some point in their lives. The risk of developing a UTI increases when a woman ages and increases to a maximum of double when she reaches the age of 65.
In this blog, we will explain the reasons behind UTIs after sexual activity, the common symptoms, and easy methods to avoid UTIs so that you can be comfortable and stay healthy.
Why Does Having Sex Increase Your Risk of Getting a UTI?
Dr. Deepanshu Gupta, a urologist in Gurgaon, says bacteria can be transferred through the genital region to the bladder through the urethra in sexual interactions.
Women are more likely to get infections more frequently than men due to having a urethra with a shorter length that allows bacteria like E-coli to move more quickly into the bladder.
It is important to keep in mind that UTIs aren’t just acquired through penetrative sexual interaction or oral sex. Even contact with genital parts may also introduce bacteria into the urinary tract. Patients with a history of urinary tract infections or urinary tract disorders that are pre-existing or have a weak immune system could also be at risk of getting UTIs in the course of sexual interaction.
What Can You Do to Reduce Your Risk of a UTI After Sex?
UTIs can be a painful and depressing experience but the good news is that making just a small change to your routine after sex can have a significant impact. With just a few simple steps you will decrease the risk of contracting infection.
1. Urinate After Sex
One of the simplest and best ways to avoid a UTI is to urinate after sex. Sex can push bacteria into the urethra and urinating will flush them out. Make this a practice within 30 minutes after sex it’s an easy step that actually does work.
2. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water during the day makes you pee more frequently which keeps your urinary tract clean. Drink a minimum of six to eight glasses of water a day.
3. Keep the Area Clean
Always clean your genitals before and after sex by using mild water and a gentle, fragrance free soap. Avoid hard soaps, perfumed wipes or vaginal douching as these can change the balance of your body and trigger infections.
4. Wipe from Front to Back
Simple habit of washing your hands from the back to the front after using the toilet stops bacteria in the area that surrounds the anal entering the vagina and urethra, which is among the primary causes of UTIs.
5. Wear Comfortable Underwear
It is advised to wear cotton underwear as it allows skin to breathe and keeps the area clean and dry, because tight and other fabric underwear traps moisture and helps bacteria to grow
6. Shower Rather Than Bath
Long baths allow the presence of bacteria to get into your urinary tract. Showers can help cleanse the urinary tract and prevent infections. If you take baths, make sure they are only the duration of a few minutes and avoid bath oils or products that smell.
7. Shun Spermicides and Harsh Products
Certain lubricants, spermicides or condoms coated with chemicals can irritate the urethra, and can make it more difficult for bacteria to be infected. If you can, choose water based, mild lubricants as well as condoms that are not spermicidal.
8. Empty Your Bladder.
Do not keep your urine in the tank for long periods of time. The longer you keep urine within your bladder the greater chances there are for bacteria to grow. You should flush your bladder every couple of hours, regardless of whether you don’t have to go.
9. Safe and Clean Sex
Hygiene is important for both partners. It is important that the two of you bathe before having sex and you must always wash your hands. This reduces the chance of a spread of bacteria between you.
Who Is at Higher Risk of Getting UTIs?
A urinary tract infection or UTI can happen to anyone but women are more at risk of developing the infection than men. Other risk factors to take into consideration include:
- Postmenopausal women who have dry or atrophic tissues.
- Frequent sexual intercourse.
- New sexual partner.
- Prior UTIs.
- Multiple pregnancies.
- Obesity.
- Diabetes.
- Immunosuppression.
- Anatomical abnormalities of the urinary system
Other Causes of UTIs after sex
Sex is a prevalent cause of a UTI but not the only cause. Other causes are
- Having difficulty fully emptying your bladder.
- Obstructions in your urinary tract such as kidney stones or an enlarged prostate.
- Using urinary catheters.
- Repeated usage of antibiotics can alter the
What are the Symptoms of a UTI after sex?
A few of the most frequent indicators of UTI after sex are:
- The need is constant and immediate to urinate, however, only passing in small quantities.
- The sensation of burning when you urinate.
- Pressure or pain in the pelvic region.
- The urine of a person is stained with blood.
- Abnormal urine can be sour and/or cloudy.
- Rectal pain
If the infection spreads into the kidneys, other symptoms could include:
- The pain is on the sides and upper back.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Fever and chills.
How Is a UTI Treated?
Most UTIs will be well-treated with antibiotics. These antibiotic treatments are typically pretty effective and are effective for only a few days.
Other ways to minimize symptoms include:
- Pain medication for abdominal discomfort or urination discomfort.
- Low-dose antibiotics for recurrent UTIs.
- Antibiotics in a single dose after sexual intercourse to prevent UTIs if you are a person who gets recurrent
In your home, as you wait to see a doctor attempt:
- Drink plenty of water.
- Beware of bladder irritations caused by coffee, soda or citrus juices as along with alcohol.
- Heating pads are used to relieve pelvic or abdominal discomfort.
Additional Tips for Preventing UTIs
- Drink at least 6 glasses of water throughout the day.
- It is common to urinate frequently, particularly after sexual contact.
- Hands should be washed from side to side in a forward direction after urination.
- The genital part should be gently cleaned every day and before any sexual interactions, to ensure that it’s clean.
- Wear underwear that’s comfortable and cool.
- Consider the possibility of using vaginal probiotics in order to maintain an energised vaginal flora.
- Consuming enough water and drinking lots of it could aid in reducing the risk of UTIs.
Takeaway
Sexual activities can increase the chance of an infection of the urinary tract UTI. But there are methods to lower the chance of developing an infection. Making sure to be involved in sexual activities after urination and maintaining your genitals clean and tidy is simple and efficient. Utilizing safe and effective methods of contraception and talking about other precautions with your physician will also help.
If you feel burning while you are urinating and you notice urine with blood or pain in your abdomen the sides or back it is recommended to consult a doctor earlier instead of later. Dr. Deepanshu Gupta has over 12 years of experience and he is the Best urologist in Gurgaon. He can help you keep your urinary tract in good shape and less prone to infection.