Anyone who has ever experienced a UTI knows just how uncomfortable and unpleasant they can be, so we can safely say that they are NOT fun.

Sex on the other hand? Pretty fun! Unfortunately, there’s a bit of an overlap here. Sex plays a big role in your overall vaginal health, and that includes - you guessed it - UTIs. Let’s look into how to prevent one while getting lucky, and what to do if you get one.

A UTI (urinary tract infection) that occurs after sexual activity is often referred to as "honeymoon cystitis" or "postcoital cystitis." This condition is more common in women and can be triggered by various factors related to sexual activity.

What Is A UTI?

UTI stands for “urinary tract infection” and they are very common, so let’s start destigmatizing them, ok? 

A UTI is basically an infection that affects the urethra or bladder that can manifest as pain while urinating or feeling like you must run to pee more frequently than usual among other symptoms.

Everyday things like tampons, not drinking enough water, and sex can cause them or make them worse, and to add insult to injury, women are more likely to have them because of our anatomies: a woman’s urethra is shorter, so bacteria have a fast pass to the bladder. Sigh.

UTIs can affect any part of the urinary system so it’s not just limited to the urethra; they can affect any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra.

If these types of infections travel all the way up to the kidneys, it can become a very serious issue that may require hospitalization.

Your average UTI though can usually be treated with some antibiotics; however, prevention is always the best medicine, so keeping things clean down there should be a priority.

What May Cause A UTI After Sex?

Many people who have had the unfortunate experience of a UTI, tend to notice that it happens after sex. What’s the deal with this?

As it turns out the friction experienced during intercourse pushes bacteria further towards the urethra resulting in an infection, this is why good hygiene and other practices are so important for our vaginas.

How To Prevent UTIs When You’re Sexually Active?

Pee before sex and promptly after

This will flush your system and keep bacteria that have entered your urinary tract from gaining a foothold.

Clean your genital and anal areas

 (wiping front to back only) before and after sex. Vaginesse Towelettes are the perfect on-the-go option for an organic pH-balanced intimate wipe product for whenever and wherever you may need it.

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water

and make sure to have an extra glass after intercourse. This will help rid your urinary tract of unwanted bacteria. Staying hydrated will help flush bacteria from the urinary system.

Use a vaginal lubricant

as friction during sex can irritate the urethra. If sexual dryness is a concern, consider using water-based lubricants to reduce friction and irritation.

Safe Sex Practices

Consistently using condoms can reduce the risk of introducing bacteria during sexual activity.

Consider a new form of birth control.

If you’re prone to UTIs, you may want to avoid using a diaphragm or spermicide as your form of pregnancy prevention. These can introduce bacteria into the area and can kill off healthy bacteria that keep the problem germs in check.

Jump in the shower and cleanse your vulva!

Our Vaginesse Intimate Cleanser is an excellent option for an organic pH-balanced intimate wash to keep bacteria and germs in line all while making your vulva feel fresh and clean. Avoid the use of irritating feminine hygiene products.

This isn’t exactly UTI related,

but while you’re at it, moisturize after wiping or washing with Vaginesse Intimate Moisturizer. It’s the perfect pH-balancing option for keeping things soft and smooth down there.

How To Treat UTIs

The treatment for a UTI (urinary tract infection) typically involves antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. The specific antibiotic and duration of treatment depend on factors such as the type of bacteria causing the infection and the severity of the UTI.

The best way to treat a UTI is by asking your doctor for the best treatment for your specific case, however, there are a few things you can do at home if you find yourself deep in the throes of a UTI:

• Cranberry juice is an age-old treatment for UTIs, but while it helps with symptoms like burning or pain, it won’t necessarily cure a UTI on its own. 
• Wear loose-fitting undies to keep things breathing down there.
• Drink lots of water to keep the cleansing of your bladder going. 
• Take probiotics to balance out the healthy bacteria in your body.

In addition to antibiotics, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help alleviate pain, discomfort, and fever associated with the UTI.

It's crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and complete the full course of antibiotics, even if your symptoms improve before you finish the medication. Stopping treatment too soon can allow the infection to return.

Should You Have Sex If You Have A UTI?

No way, José! Sex will surely make the infection worse and also, it might not feel that great with all the discomfort down there.

Chances are sex will slow down the healing process so abstain for now until you’re good to go and free of the UTI. Then you can go back to enjoying it without the added stress!!!