Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is a common bacterial infection that affects the urethra, bladder, and in some cases the kidneys. Women are more likely to experience UTI than men because of their anatomy.
Sexual activity is one of the primary causes of UTI in women, while poor hygiene and certain medical conditions like diabetes and kidney stones also increase the risk of developing UTI.
Symptoms of UTI
Some of the common symptoms of UTI include:.
- Burning sensation during urination
- Frequent need to urinate but passing only small amounts of urine
- Cloudy, strong-smelling urine
- Pain in the lower abdomen or back
- Fever, chills and vomiting in severe cases
Treatment of UTI
UTI can be treated with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. Mild UTI can clear up on its own within a few days if you take plenty of water and take pain relievers.
It’s important to complete the prescribed course of antibiotics even if the symptoms improve. Failure to do so may result in recurrence of UTI, which can be more severe.
Can You Have Sex While You Have UTI?
If you’ve been diagnosed with UTI, it’s advisable to abstain from sexual activity until the infection clears up entirely. Sexual activity during UTI can lead to more irritation, which may prolong the healing process and make symptoms worse.
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Can I have sex with a UTI?
Moreover, if you’re taking antibiotics for UTI, you may also have side effects like nausea, vomiting and digestive issues that can be made worse by sex.
How Long Should You Wait?
The ideal time to resume sexual activity after UTI will depend on the severity of the infection and how long you’ve been receiving treatment.
Generally, it’s recommended to wait for at least a week after you’ve completed the prescribed course of antibiotics. This period allows the bacteria in the urethra and bladder to clear up entirely, and the inflammation to subside.
Preventing UTI
Urinary Tract Infection is a painful and uncomfortable experience that can be prevented by following these simple tips:.
- Wipe from front to back after urinating or bowel movements
- Avoid using feminine sprays and douches that can irritate the urethra
- Drink plenty of water
- Empty your bladder fully every time you urinate
- Urinate after sex to flush out bacteria that may have got into the urethra
Conclusion
UTI is a common bacterial infection that affects millions of people worldwide. Sexual activity is one of the primary causes of UTI in women, and it’s advisable to abstain from sex until the infection clears up.
Always complete the prescribed course of antibiotics and follow a strict hygiene regimen to prevent UTI.
