Sex & UTIs

One of the most common triggers for urinary tract infections (UTIs) is sex. While this can sound alarming, it’s important to know that UTIs are not sexually transmitted infections and you don’t need to stop having sex to prevent them.

UTIs typically occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract. During sexual activity, bacteria from the genital or anal area can sometimes come into contact with the urethra and travel into the bladder, leading to infection.

Understanding why this happens can help you take simple steps to reduce your risk.

What Is Honeymoon Cystitis? 

The word "cystitis" refers to inflammation of the bladder. In most cases, is caused by a UTI. 

Honeymoon cystitis is a term used to describe a bladder infection that occurs after sexual activity. It is sometimes referred to as post-coital cystitis, because symptoms tend to appear shortly after intercourse.¹

The name originated from the observation that some women developed UTIs when they first became sexually active, particularly during a honeymoon period. However, honeymoon cystitis can happen at any stage of life, including when someone:

• has sex for the first time

• resumes sexual activity after a long break

• enters a new relationship

During sex, bacteria such as E. coli , which normally live in the intestinal tract, can be transferred toward the urethra through contact with fingers, genitals, or surrounding skin. Because the urethra leads directly to the bladder, bacteria that reach it can sometimes travel upward and cause an infection.¹

Although the name may sound unusual, honeymoon cystitis is simply a common type of UTI triggered by sexual activity.

Why Can Sex Trigger UTIs? 

Studies have shown that sexual activity can increase the likelihood of developing a UTI. This is mainly due to the physical movement involved during sex, which can bring bacteria closer to the urethra.

Research has identified sexual intercourse as one of the strongest risk factors for UTIs in young women. In fact, one study found that nearly 80% of premenopausal women with a UTI had sexual intercourse within the previous 24 hours.²

This doesn’t mean sex directly causes UTIs, but the activity can make it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary tract and reach the bladder.

Are UTIs Considered STIs?

No, urinary tract infections (UTIs) are not considered sexually transmitted infections (STIs). UTIs are typically caused by bacteria that naturally live in the digestive tract, most commonly Escherichia coli (E. coli). These bacteria can sometimes enter the urethra and travel into the bladder, causing infection.

While sexual activity can increase the risk of developing a UTI by moving bacteria closer to the urethra, UTIs themselves are not contagious and cannot be passed from one partner to another during sex.³

Some symptoms of UTIs and STIs can overlap, such as burning during urination or pelvic discomfort. If symptoms are unusual, persistent, or accompanied by discharge or sores, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional to rule out other conditions.

Can I Have Sex When I have a UTI?

If you currently have a UTI, sexual activity may increase irritation or discomfort in the urinary tract. Many people prefer to wait until symptoms improve or treatment is complete before resuming sex.

Listening to your body and avoiding activities that cause pain is important during recovery.

Tips to Prevent UTIs After Sex 

While UTIs cannot always be prevented, certain habits may help reduce the risk of infection associated with sexual activity.

Helpful prevention tips include:

• Clear your bladder (if possible) by urinating before and/or after sex
• Washing your genital areas before sex
• Ask a doctor about contraceptive options if you get frequent UTIs
• Wash hands before manual stimulation
• Staying well hydrated throughout the day
• Avoiding spermicides, which may increase UTI risk in some women

Urinary tract support supplements containing the clinically researched 36 mg of cranberry PACs may help prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall. Utiva Cranberry PACs provides this dose in one convenient daily capsule and is third-party tested to verify PAC content, helping support urinary tract health and reduce the risk of recurrent UTIs, including those triggered by sexual activity.

“Very impressed with this product. In the previous year, I’d had 13 UTI’s and i was taking a cranberry supplement and had been on countless prescribed meds. I started this product the day I received it a few months ago and things have turned around. I am delighted with this product.”

Carol, Canada

When Should I See a Doctor? 

If you notice symptoms of a urinary tract infection, it’s important to seek medical guidance.

Common symptoms include:

• A strong and frequent urge to urinate
• Pain or a burning sensation when urinating
• Cloudy, bloody, or strong-smelling urine
• Fever and chills
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fatigue or shaking
• Muscle aches, abdominal pain, or lower back pain

At-home options such as  Utiva UTI Test Strips can help you check for possible signs of infection. These tests detect leukocytes (white blood cells) and nitrites, which can indicate the presence of bacteria such as E. coli, and provide results in about two minutes.

If the test indicates a possible infection, or if symptoms persist, consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.

If there is a sign for a UTI, please consult your physician immediately.

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References

¹ Patient.info. Honeymoon cystitis: what is it and how to avoid it.
https://patient.info/features/kidney-urinary-tract/honeymoon-cystitis-what-is-it-and-how-to-avoid

² Hooton, T. M., et al. (1990). A prospective study of risk factors for symptomatic urinary tract infection in young women.
New England Journal of Medicine.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2324774/

³ Mayo Clinic Health System. Debunking urinary tract infection myths.
https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/debunking-urinary-tract-infection-myths