A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that affects any part of the urinary system — including the bladder, urethra, ureters, or kidneys. Most UTIs occur in the lower urinary tract, especially the bladder and urethra. While UTIs aren’t technically classified as STIs, they are closely linked to sexual activity, and symptoms can often be confused with sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia or gonorrhea.
UTIs are extremely common, especially in people with female anatomy. This is partly because the urethra is shorter and located closer to the anus and vaginal opening, making it easier for bacteria like E. coli to enter the urinary tract. People with male anatomy are less likely to get UTIs, but when they do, it’s often linked to prostate issues or unprotected anal sex.
Although UTIs aren’t spread from partner to partner in the way STIs are, sexual activity is a major trigger, especially for people who are prone to them. Friction during sex can push bacteria into the urethra, and certain types of intercourse — including anal or oral-to-genital contact — may increase the risk.
What Are Symptoms of a UTI?
UTIs often come on quickly and cause very noticeable discomfort. The hallmark symptoms involve pain, urgency, and changes in how you urinate. Some people may also feel general pelvic discomfort or flu-like fatigue.
In people with female biology, symptoms usually include a strong, persistent urge to urinate, burning during urination, cloudy or bloody urine, and cramping in the lower belly or pelvis. You might feel like you constantly have to pee, but only pass a few drops.
In people with male biology, UTIs can cause similar symptoms — burning while peeing, frequent urination, or discomfort in the lower abdomen. In some cases, the infection spreads to the prostate, leading to pelvic or perineal pain and a feeling of pressure or fullness.
When a UTI climbs to the kidneys, it can cause more serious symptoms like fever, chills, back pain, or nausea. This type of infection (called pyelonephritis) needs prompt treatment.
What Does a UTI Feel Like or Look Like?
Most people describe a UTI as a sharp, burning sensation during urination — often paired with the feeling that you need to pee again immediately after. The discomfort tends to be focused in the lower abdomen or just behind the pubic bone.
The urine itself might appear cloudy, pink-tinged from blood, or have a strong, unpleasant odor. Some people notice mucus or sediment in the toilet bowl. Although these signs are common, they don’t appear in every case — which is why testing is so important if you’re unsure.
How Is a UTI Transmitted?
UTIs are not sexually transmitted, but they’re deeply connected to sexual activity — especially for people with vaginas. That’s why UTIs are sometimes called “honeymoon cystitis” — they often flare up after sex, especially with a new partner or after a long period of abstinence.
During vaginal or anal intercourse, friction can introduce bacteria from the skin, anus, or genitals into the urethra. This is particularly true during penetrative sex, where bacteria like E. coli can be pushed toward the urethral opening. Even oral sex or hand-genital contact can introduce new bacteria, depending on hygiene and technique.
Anal-to-vaginal contact — or switching between partners or sex acts without washing — dramatically increases the risk. Lubricants, condoms with spermicide, and even sex toys can disrupt the vaginal flora or introduce bacteria if not used carefully.
Fortunately, prevention is possible. You can reduce your risk of sex-related UTIs by:
- Urinating shortly after intercourse
- Washing your genitals (and your partner’s hands or toys) before and after sex
- Using unscented lubricants to minimize friction
- Avoiding spermicide if you’re prone to UTIs
- Staying well-hydrated before and after intimacy
None of these precautions are foolproof — but they can reduce both bacterial exposure and irritation to the urinary tract.
UTIs can also be triggered by non-sexual causes like catheter use, menopause, or anatomical differences.
How Do You Test for a UTI?
UTIs are diagnosed with a urine test, usually done in a clinic or urgent care. You’ll be asked to provide a clean-catch urine sample, which is then tested for white blood cells, nitrites, and bacteria.
If you’ve had frequent UTIs, or if your symptoms don’t improve with first-line treatment, your provider might order a urine culture. This helps identify the exact bacteria causing the infection and which antibiotics will work best.
Testing can also help rule out STIs — especially if you have genital symptoms like burning, discharge, or pelvic pain and you’re sexually active.
How Is a UTI Treated?
UTIs are treated with antibiotics, and most people feel better within a day or two. The exact antibiotic depends on the type of bacteria and whether you’ve had UTIs before.
If it’s your first UTI or your symptoms are mild, you may only need a short 3-day course. More complicated or recurrent infections may require longer treatment or additional testing. Drinking plenty of water, using heating pads for cramps, and avoiding caffeine or alcohol can also ease discomfort.
It’s important to take the full course of medication, even if your symptoms go away quickly — stopping early can allow the infection to return.
Complications of a UTI
When treated early, most UTIs are harmless and resolve quickly. But when left untreated, they can lead to serious complications.
Infections that travel to the kidneys can cause long-term damage and increase the risk of sepsis — a life-threatening condition where the infection spreads into the bloodstream. Repeated UTIs may also signal an underlying anatomical issue or require preventive treatment.
In people with male anatomy, chronic or untreated UTIs can lead to prostatitis or reduced urinary function.
Outlook & Prognosis
Most people recover from a UTI with a simple antibiotic and a few days of self-care. The biggest challenge tends to be recurrence — especially in people with female anatomy, where up to half may have another UTI within a year.
If you get frequent UTIs, talk to your provider about prevention strategies, including low-dose antibiotics, vaginal estrogen (if postmenopausal), or behavioral changes like urinating after sex.
Living With UTIs
Frequent UTIs can be disruptive, especially when they affect your ability to enjoy sex or travel comfortably. If you’ve had multiple UTIs, you might start associating sex with discomfort or start avoiding it altogether.
It helps to know that prevention is possible. Drinking more water, avoiding spermicide, and urinating after sex are small steps that make a big difference. If you’re prone to UTIs after sex, talk to your provider — they might suggest a one-time antibiotic dose after intercourse.
Some people benefit from probiotics or vaginal estrogen therapy, especially after menopause. Keeping a symptom log and noticing your triggers can also help.
How to Talk to a Partner About a UTI
Talking to a partner about a UTI isn’t the same as talking about an STI — but it can still feel awkward, especially if you’re dealing with pain or avoiding intimacy. It helps to be open and matter-of-fact:
“I’m dealing with a UTI right now — it’s not an STI, but sex probably contributed to it. I just need a few days to heal, and I’ll let you know when I’m feeling better.”
This helps set expectations without placing blame. It also opens the door to future conversations about hygiene, lubricant use, and aftercare — all of which can help reduce your risk and improve your sex life.
Quick Facts About UTIs
- Caused by: Bacteria (commonly E. coli) entering the urinary tract
- Triggered by: Sexual activity, poor hygiene, dehydration, menopause, or catheter use
- Symptoms: Burning urination, urgency, pelvic pain, cloudy or bloody urine
- Testing: Urine sample tested for bacteria and white blood cells
- Treatment: Oral antibiotics; fluids and symptom relief
- Risk if untreated: Kidney infection, sepsis, recurrent UTIs
- How common: Very common — especially among sexually active women and postmenopausal people
Last reviewed: May 2025
This content is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect the latest medical guidelines.