Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common type of infection and can at times be quite uncomfortable and painful. Women are especially vulnerable to developing UTIs due to their anatomy, which is why it’s even more important for them to know how to prevent these incidences from occurring as a result of sexual activity.
For all genders seeking a way out of dealing with recurrent UTI after sex episodes, this article will provide you with 7 useful tips that will aid in preventing these unpleasant incidents from happening. Read on to get informed on strategies aimed at helping you stay healthy!
What Is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is an infection of the urinary tract, which is composed of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. It is caused by bacteria that enter the urinary system, usually through sexual intercourse. Its symptoms can range from mild to severe, including painful urination and strong odor.
To prevent UTI after sex, make sure to empty your bladder after intercourse before going to bed; drink plenty of water; practice good hygiene (wipe front-to-back); and use protection when having sex. Likewise, women are advised to avoid douching to keep their vaginal area clean as well as wearing cotton underwear. Taking steps such as these can help decrease the chances of getting a UTI.
What Causes a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are caused by bacteria entering and multiplying in the bladder. While young children, pregnant women, and seniors are more susceptible to UTIs, anyone can get them. The most common cause is decreased urine flow due to poor hygiene or a weakened immune system. It is important to maintain proper bathroom habits as well as regularly drink fluids such as water and cranberry juice to reduce risk of UTI.
Following intercourse, it is recommended to urinate soon afterwards in order to clear any bacteria that can lead to infection. Wiping from front-to-back when using the toilet can also help prevent UTIs due to the proximity of the rectum and urethra leading into the bladder. Taking all these steps will help minimize occurrence of UTI and promote overall well being.
Other causes of UTIs include:
- A blockage in the urinary tract, such as a kidney stone or an enlarged prostate
- Sexual activity
- A weakened immune system
- A recent urinary catheterization
- Using certain types of birth control, such as diaphragms or spermicides
- Having a history of UTIs
Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infections
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI) can include:
- A strong, persistent urge to urinate
- A burning sensation when urinating
- Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
- Cloudy, dark, bloody, or strange-smelling urine
- Feeling tired or shaky
- Feeling feverish or having chills (a sign the infection may have reached the kidneys)
- Lower back or side pain (a sign the infection may have reached the kidneys)
It is important to note that some people may not experience any symptoms at all, especially older adults. It is always best to consult with a doctor if you suspect you have a UTI.
Treatment for Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common and often painful occurrence, but fortunately treatments exist to help alleviate the associated discomfort. Taking proactive steps to reduce the risk of UTI after sexual intercourse can tremendously improve your odds of avoiding infection in the first place. Before having sex, urinating can help flush out bacteria that might otherwise travel up the urethra.
During sex, avoid using spermicides or other irritants, and make sure to stay hydrated. Post-intercourse be sure to urinate again, which helps clear the urethra of residual bacteria. In some cases a prophylactic antibiotic may be prescribed by a medical professional as well. If UTI symptoms develop shortly after sex, treatment will likely involve oral antibacterial medication which can rid the system of bacteria causing inflammation and restore bladder health.
1- Drink water
Water is essential for staying properly hydrated, but did you know that it also can be a powerful tool for preventing urinary tract infections after intercourse? Research has found that women who drink at least eight ounces of water within an hour of having sex have lower odds of developing a UTI than those who don't.
Proper hydration helps prevent lingering bacteria in the urinary system from becoming trapped in bladder walls, which could increase risk of infection. As you prepare for intimate moments with your partner, ensure you reach for a glass or two of water — it could be the difference between preventing and battling a UTI.
View More: 10 Natural Foods Eat Before Sex To Last Longer In Bed
2- Take antibiotics
Taking antibiotics after sexual intercourse is an important step for preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs). While not all cases of UTIs are caused by sexual activity, it's a common risk factor for developing an infection. The best way to protect yourself from a UTI is to take antibiotics within one hour of having sex.
This will flush out any bacteria that have come into contact with your urethra and decrease the odds of a bacterial infection taking hold in your body. It's also important to always practice safe sex, including using condoms and avoiding contact with fluids during intimacy. Taking these preventive measures can greatly reduce your risk of contracting a UTI after sex.
3- Use vaginal estrogen
Vaginal estrogen is regarded as one of the most effective ways to prevent urinary tract infections (UTI) after sex. It has been scientifically shown that regular use of vaginal estrogen cream helps restore a healthy vaginal wall, which in turn reduces the risk of UTI after sexual intercourse.
Additionally, its usage strengthens the body's natural protective bacteria making it better able to fight against any potential infection-causing bacteria. It is essential for elderly women or those with underlying health conditions to actively discuss the use of vaginal estrogen with their doctor and carefully follow their instructions on how to best utilize it to reduce the chances of developing a UTI after sex.
4- Pee after sex
After a night of passionate pleasure, it's important to not forget the most essential post-coital activity - peeing! A simple and effective way to prevent urinary tract infections (UTI) after sex is to urinate soon afterwards. This helps flush out any bacteria that may have been transferred during intercourse.
To make sure you do not forget this important step, hide a bottle of water or set out a reminder on your bedside table before getting down to business. Following this easy protocol can help avoid those uncomfortable UTI symptoms such as frequent and painful urination. So make sure you remember to relieve yourself after getting intimate - it will save you lots of pain later down the line!
5- Wipe from front to back
An important step to preventing urinary tract infections after sex is to always wipe from front to back. When wiping, start from your vagina and move towards your backside; this helps keep harmful bacteria away from the urethra. This simple habit of wiping from front to back can make all the difference in reducing UTIs and keeping your urinary tract healthy. Taking a few extra seconds for proper post-bathroom hygiene can help ensure your urinary system stays happy and healthy!
6- Garlic
Garlic is a nutritious and flavorful food that has been in use for centuries, but many don't realize how powerful it can be when it comes to preventing infections. Specifically, garlic has antibacterial properties which can help prevent urinary tract infections (UTI) from occurring after sexual activity.
To use garlic as a UTI prevention method, the best option is to either consume raw garlic or take high-quality supplements before engaging in anything that could expose you to infection. The pungent smell and taste of garlic may not be everyone's favorite, but it can be highly effective in ensuring your urinary tract stays healthy despite any potential exposures.
7- Clove oil
Clove oil has been touted as a natural remedy for many ailments, including those related to urinary tract infections. Generally, clove oil can be used as a preventative measure if taken orally in small amounts prior to sexual activity. It is thought that the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of clove oil can reduce the amount of bacteria found in the urogenital tract, which may help to prevent a UTI after sex.
Of course, it is important to follow up with other preventive measures such as drinking plenty of water, urinating before and after sex, and avoiding sexually transmitted diseases. Clove oil is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative way of mitigating risk when it comes to UTIs, however it is important never to forget the importance of regular checkups from your GP or another healthcare professional.
How long does it take to get a UTI after sex?
Urinary Tract Infections, or UTIs, can develop at varying times after sex but the most common window is between 24-48 hours. It is important to know how to prevent UTI after sex in order to reduce the risk of developing one. Women should empty their bladder soon after intercourse, wear loose clothing and cotton underwear, and avoid using highly scented soaps or perfumes near the genital area.
Men can help by urinating before and after sex as well as refraining from using spermicides and other irritants during intercourse. Regularly drinking unsweetened cranberry juice may also help protect against UTI since it works to acidify the body's pH balance, making it more difficult for bacteria to invade and thrive in the bladder.
View More: Side Effects Of Having Sex At An Early Age
Can I have sex with a UTI?
If you have a urinary tract infection (UTI), it's best to avoid sexual intercourse until you're feeling better and the infection has cleared. This is because sexual activity can potentially worsen existing UTI symptoms and cause other unwanted side effects, such as further irritation to the urethra. While your UTI is active, it’s important to practice safe hygiene practices following any form of sex - this includes washing with warm water after intercourse and avoiding tight clothing after ejaculation.
Additionally, using condoms can also help reduce bacteria transfer between partners and can be beneficial in how to prevent UTI after sex. It's also a good idea to drink plenty of water when managing a UTI - this helps flush out bacteria from your system while encouraging quicker healing.
Will Urinating After Sexual Intercourse Prevent Urinary Tract Infections?
It is common to wonder how to prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) after sexual intercourse. Many people have heard the suggestion that urinating immediately after sex will prevent the chances of a UTI, but the research on this topic is mixed. Some studies have found that urinating after sex may help reduce the risk of developing a UTI, while other studies have shown no benefit from doing so.
What is clear, however, is that your best chance at preventing a UTI after sex is to maintain good hygiene and drink plenty of fluids during and after your session. Washing before and after sexual activity removes bacteria that can cause an infection, and drinking plenty of fluids helps flush out the bladder. Even though there is still debate around how much benefit urinating right away can provide, it never hurts to give it a try!
Conclusion
To sum it up, a urinary tract infection (UTI) is an uncomfortable and sometimes painful bacterial infection. In order to prevent UTI after sex, it is important to take the necessary precautions beforehand and during sex, such as urinating after intercourse, avoiding holding your pee too long, drinking lots of fluids, taking cranberry glean or pills if needed, wiping front to back after going to the bathroom, wearing cotton underwear and pants that don't hold in moisture and cleaning any toys used.
By following these top 7 steps you can reduce your risk of getting a UTI after sex immensely! It may sound like a hassle at first, but it will help you stay healthy in the long run. So to keep yourself comfy and safe – let's all make prevention step one for post-sex care!
Please book an appointment with the best Sexologist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find the verified doctor for your disease.
Source: https://instacare.pk/blog/how-to-prevent-uti-after-sex
