After having sex, one essential aspect that most people should consider is peeing. While it may seem mundane, it can prevent a plethora of complications and infections, especially among women.
What Happens During Sex?
During sexual intercourse, the body produces bacteria and other elements that could enter the urinary tract. These elements could carry infections or other complications, leading to severe health issues.
It could be particularly harsh in women, as the bacteria could travel to their urethra, bladder, or kidneys, and cause urinary tract infection (UTI).
Why Peeing is so Crucial?
For one thing, peeing after sex removes any bacteria or germs that have entered the urethra during sex. Additionally, the bladder empties, moves bacteria out, and reduces the risk of developing a UTI.
Furthermore, peeing post-sex can help reduce the risk of vaginal infections.
Preventing Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
As noted above, peeing after sex is an effective means of preventing UTIs. UTIs are particularly common in women. In fact, one in three women will develop a UTI before they turn 24.
That is because the female urethra (which is the tube that transports urine out of the bladder and out of the body) is shorter than the male urethra. So, bacteria have less ground to cover to go from the outside to the bladder and cause an infection.
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Why is it important to pee after sex?
Why Do UTIs Happen?
Most UTIs develop because they have been contaminated. Bacteria that is normally found in your bowel can transfer to the urethra, and if you don’t pee after sex, it might end up in the bladder and cause the infection.
Another reason that UTIs are so common is because the bladder doesn’t empty entirely during urination. Some bacteria may survive in urine and cause an infection. That’s why it’s essential to always pee entirely, particularly post-sex.
When Should You Go to See a Doctor?
While UTIs are relatively common and typically get cleared on their own, sometimes they may cause severe health issues that cannot be eradicated over time.
If you have been following good hygiene practices and are still experiencing symptoms of an infection, you should seek medical attention immediately. You might experience fever, chills, and back pain. This could be an indication that you have a kidney infection, which can be life-threatening. Below are other specific times when you may consider going to see a doctor:.
- If you have blood in your urine
- If you have a fever
- If you experience frequent UTIs, which could be indications of another underlying issue
- If your symptoms get worse over time
Other Ways of Preventing UTIs
While peeing after sex is an effective way to prevent UTIs, there are other things you can do to minimize your risk of catching one, including:.
- Drink plenty of water to flush out bacteria
- Urinate frequently
- Wipe front to back when wiping after using the toilet (for women)
- Avoid using harsh feminine products that could irritate your urethra, such as scented wipes or soap
- Wear cotton underwear as it’s breathable and reduces the moisture and bacteria growth
Final Thoughts
While peeing after sex may seem like a small step, it can save you from a lot of pain and misery caused by UTIs. For women in particular, UTIs can lead to severe health issues, including kidney damage or sepsis. So, make it a habit to pee after sex.
It could be one of the most potent ways of preventing UTIs and the complications that come with them.
