If you’re like me, you’ve had a phase of UTIs that lasted longer than Carrie and Big’s relationship. IYKYK. When even religiously peeing after sex didn’t help, I started to wonder…. was it the guy? Or the position? I chatted with my doctor and learned that some sex positions can, in fact, increase your risk of a UTI.
What is a UTI?
A UTI (urinary tract infection) happens when bacteria, usually from your partner’s skin, your own skin, or the surrounding area, gets into your urethra. This often manifests as pain or pressure in your bladder when peeing, burning when you pee, and a frequent need to pee. Sometimes you may even see some blood in your urine.
Contrary to popular belief, UTIs cannot be cured by chugging cranberry juice and taking copious amounts of that little pill that turns your pee bright orange. UTIs must be treated with a proper course of antibiotics.
So... is sex the problem?
Not sex itself, but what happens during sex. The friction, positions, and bacteria transfer are all part of the UTI equation. It’s super common (so common that 1 in 5 people with vaginas get recurrent UTIs), and no, it doesn’t mean you’re dirty. It just means your urethra is sensitive and you might need to be extra mindful when doing the deed.
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It’s not about “bad” positions, it’s about how much rubbing, pressure, and bacteria transfer is happening near your urethra. Some bodies are just more prone to flare-ups than others.
Can we prevent this without canceling sex forever?
Absolutely yes (thank goodness). Here are a couple of suggestions that might help if you’re extra prone to UTIs:
- Pee before and after sex. It’s not a myth, it really does help prevent bacteria from creeping into your urethra.
- Wipe front to back (yes, always).
- Wash hands and toys before play.
- Lube it up: Friction is the enemy. More lube = less irritation.
- Try a supplement! If you’re prone to post-sex UTIs, UTI Daily Protection with D-Mannose, cranberry, and vitamin C might be your new bestie.
