Sexual Health

Urinary tract infections and sexual activity

Sexually transmitted infections, like chlamydia and trichomonas, can cause urinary tract infections as well as other symptoms. However, most common urinary tract infections arise from Escherichia coli bacteria (E. coli) – a normal part of the bacterial flora in the bowel. E. coli can travel from the rectal area to the urethra (the opening through which urine passes). When there are slippery conditions – as in sexual activity – it is very easy for bacteria to move around, climb up the urethra, and enter the bladder.

The symptoms of a bladder or urinary tract infection are memorable – if you’ve had one once, you will have no problem identifying the tell tale signs:

• Frequent urination
• Burning on urination
• Urgency – a feeling that you need to urinate immediately – can’t wait!
• Hesitancy – sense that you need to urinate, but difficulty starting the stream or passing only a few drops
• Change in urine color – first morning urine may be dark, cloudy and foul-smelling; you may notice a pink or red color if your passing blood in the urine (this does happen!)
• Suprapubic pain, discomfort or aching just above your pubic bone
• Fever or chills, nausea – especially if this goes untreated
• Flank pain (on the sides of your mid to lower back) may be a sign that the infection is moving up to the kidneys.

If you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection, be certain to consult your health care provider. Most infections respond very well to antibiotic treatment and a bladder relaxer (phenazopyridine - Pyridium). Ignoring these symptoms will not make them go away, and in fact it may lead to a much more dangerous infection of the kidneys. If in doubt, it’s best to check it out.