Can You Have Sex With a UTI? What You Need to Know

What Is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common condition that occurs when bacteria enter the urinary system, leading to inflammation and infection. The urinary system includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. UTIs can affect any part of this system but are most commonly found in the bladder and urethra. Women are particularly susceptible to UTIs due to their shorter urethras, which allow bacteria easier access to the bladder (Ruiz et al., 2023).

UTIs can be classified into two main categories: uncomplicated and complicated UTIs. Uncomplicated UTIs typically occur in healthy individuals with normal urinary tracts, while complicated UTIs can arise from structural abnormalities, coexisting medical conditions, or other factors that complicate the infection (Ruiz et al., 2023).

Symptoms of a UTI and How They Affect Your Body

Symptoms of a UTI can vary but commonly include:

• Frequent urge to urinate: A person may feel the need to urinate more frequently than usual, often producing only small amounts of urine.
• Burning sensation during urination: This is one of the hallmark symptoms of a UTI, often making urination painful.
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine: The urine may appear cloudy or have a strong odor due to the presence of bacteria.
• Pelvic pain: Women may experience pain in the center of the pelvis and around the pubic bone.
• Blood in urine: This can occur due to irritation and inflammation in the urinary tract.

The infection can also lead to systemic symptoms such as fever, chills, and fatigue if it progresses to a more serious condition like a kidney infection (Finlayson et al., 2025).

The Risks of Having Sex With a UTI

Engaging in sexual intercourse while having a UTI can pose several risks. Firstly, it may exacerbate the symptoms, increasing discomfort due to friction and pressure on an already inflamed urinary tract. Secondly, sexual activity can introduce more bacteria into the urethra, potentially worsening the infection or leading to complications such as pyelonephritis (kidney infection) (Finlayson et al., 2025).

Moreover, during sex, especially if the partner is not aware of the UTI, there is a higher chance of spreading the infection through bodily fluids. While UTIs aren’t sexually transmitted infections (STIs), the bacteria causing the UTI can be transferred between partners. This transfer can lead to recurrent infections or the introduction of new bacteria, complicating the situation further (Finlayson et al., 2025).

Safe Practices for Intimacy During a UTI

If intimacy is desired during a UTI, certain precautions can be taken to minimize discomfort and potential complications:

1. Communication: Both partners should communicate openly about the UTI and any discomfort that may arise.
2. Hygiene: Ensuring both partners wash their hands and genital areas before and after intercourse can help reduce the risk of introducing more bacteria into the urinary tract.
3. Use Protection: Condoms can help minimize the spread of bacteria and reduce friction, potentially lessening discomfort.
4. Limit Activities: Consider avoiding penetrative sexual activities and opting for non-penetrative forms of intimacy instead.
5. Hydration: Drinking plenty of water before and after intercourse can help flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.

It is advisable to wait until the UTI is fully treated before resuming normal sexual activities to ensure comfort and prevent complications (Finlayson et al., 2025).

When to Seek Medical Advice After Sexual Activity with a UTI

If you choose to engage in sexual activity while experiencing a UTI, it is essential to monitor for any worsening of symptoms. If you experience any of the following, you should seek medical advice immediately:

• Increased pain or burning during urination
• Blood in urine or severe abdominal pain
• Fever or chills, indicating possible kidney involvement
• Symptoms persisting beyond a few days or worsening

Additionally, if you notice recurrent Utis, it may be worthwhile to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and potential preventive measures against future infections (Finlayson et al., 2025).

FAQs

Can I have sex while taking antibiotics for a UTI? Yes, you can have sex while on antibiotics for a UTI, but it is often recommended to wait until symptoms have resolved to avoid discomfort and further complications.

How long should I wait after a UTI before having sex? It is generally advised to wait until you have completed your antibiotic course and have been symptom-free for at least 24 hours.

Will having sex make my UTI worse? Yes, sexual activity can exacerbate UTI symptoms and may introduce more bacteria into the urinary tract, worsening the infection.

Are certain positions safer during a UTI? Positions that minimize pressure on the bladder and genital area may be more comfortable. It’s essential to prioritize comfort and avoid any positions that may aggravate symptoms.

What should I do if I develop a UTI after sex? If you experience UTI symptoms after having sex, increase your fluid intake and consider contacting a healthcare provider for evaluation and possible treatment.

References

1. Finlayson, J., Skelton, D. A., Ord, P., Roche, F., Marshall, A., Butcher, J., & Gore, N. (2025). Adults With Intellectual Disabilities and Incontinence: Assessment and Toileting Issues. Journal of Intellectual Disability Research, 69, 165–175

2. Ruiz, J. S., Frota, O. P., & Ferreira, M. A. J. (2023). Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of nurses regarding blood culture collection. Revista Brasileira de Enfermagem, 76