Sex and UTIs: The Annoying Cycle
I’m writing this fresh off my second round of antibiotics for a UTI, feeling wildly frustrated and ready to break the cycle. If you’ve ever been caught in this relentless loop—sex, UTI, antibiotics, repeat—you know exactly what I mean.
UTIs after sex are a recurring nightmare—one that too many of us experience but rarely talk about openly. And contrary to what we’ve been told, it’s not just about hygiene. Your partner’s microbiome, your body’s pH balance, and even the type of lube you use can all play a role.
So, why does this happen? And more importantly, how do we stop it? I’ve been perusing journal articles, speaking to my community, and breaking down the key insights so you don’t have to.
Why Do UTIs Often Follow Sex?
UTIs have always been framed as a 'women’s issue,' but they don’t exist in isolation. If your partner(s) is uncomfortable during sex or experiencing diminished pleasure due to your persistent UTIs (three or more in a year), they could also be contributing to the cycle of reinfection. The truth is, partner(s) can carry bacteria that affect your vaginal and bladder health without realising it. Testing both partners can be a crucial step in breaking the cycle.
Bacteria Transfer
The most common culprit is E. coli, which can enter the urinary tract through friction, fingers, toys, or penetration.
Shorter Urethra in People with Vaginas
If you have a vagina, you’re at a disadvantage ( sorry babes). Your urethra is only about 4cm long, meaning bacteria have less distance to travel to cause an infection.
pH Disruption
Semen is alkaline, while the vagina is slightly acidic. This shift in pH can make it easier for bad bacteria to thrive.
The "Pee After Sex" Debate
The science is mixed, but flushing bacteria out after sex definitely doesn’t hurt.
Dryness & Microtears
Not enough lubrication = more friction = microtears, which make it easier for bacteria to enter.
Tip: Using a pH-balanced, water-based lube can help prevent irritation.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience any of these symptoms after sex, it might be time to get checked out:
Burning sensation when peeing
Urgency or increased frequency of urination
Discomfort or pain during sex
But not all burning means you have a UTI. Here’s how to tell the difference:
Burning with a fishy smell? Could be BV (bacterial vaginosis).
Itching and thick discharge? Sounds like a yeast infection.
Burning urination and pain during sex? Might be an STI.
Moral of the story? If you’re unsure, get tested before taking antibiotics.
Expert Insight: How to Support Your Body
I ran a poll on Instagram, and the feedback I got was pretty consistent with the journal articles I’ve read. Nearly 60% of sexually active women of reproductive age report experiencing recurrent UTIs—confirming just how common this issue really is.
I spoke with Gabriella Sassi, Founder of Clinica Naturopathy and a leading expert in gut and hormonal health, about how to support bladder and vaginal health naturally. She shared these key strategies:
Rebuild Your Gut Health After Antibiotics
Take a high-quality probiotic—Lactobacillus species, particularly L. reuteri, are essential for urogenital health.
Incorporate fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, and coconut kefir.
Avoid excess sugar, which can disrupt the balance of good bacteria.
Preventative Herbal Support
D-mannose: Prevents bacterial adhesion in the bladder.
Celery Seed & Gotu Kola: Helps flush bacteria and support bladder tissue repair.
Vaginal Probiotics: Help replenish protective bacteria and maintain a healthy pH balance.
Get to the Root Cause
Gabriella notes: “Your partner’s microbiome plays a role in your vaginal and bladder health. If they’re carrying bacteria that don’t agree with your system, you could be in a cycle of reinfection without realising it. Testing both partners can be a crucial step in stopping recurring UTIs.”
Find more from Gabriella at Clinica Naturopathy or follow her on Instagram at @clinicanaturopathy.
How to Prevent UTIs But Keep It Sexy
Because no one wants their sex life dictated by their bladder. Here’s how to reduce your risk whilst keeping it fun.
Keep the Passion, Ditch the Discomfort (obviously nuanced)
Stay Juicy—Hydration is key to keeping everything flowing smoothly. A well-hydrated body makes for a well-hydrated, happy vagina.
Lube It Up—Dryness is the enemy of pleasure. Choose a pH-friendly, water-based lube to keep things slick without irritation.
Ritualise the Aftercare—After sex, have a warm shower together, fresh sheets, or even lighting a candle. Post-sex care can be just as intimate as foreplay.
Make It a Team Effort—Set the scene for intimacy with clean sheets, a tidy space, and maybe even some candles.
Feed Your Pleasure—Vaginal probiotics keep your flora balanced, making intimacy feel good without the post-sex discomfort.
Adapt & Explore—If you're feeling discomfort, pivot to other forms of intimacy. Think slow, sensual make-outs (because yum, right?), sending a sexy pic, or mutual masturbation. Pleasure isn’t just about penetration—get creative.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever struggled with UTIs after sex, you’re not alone. It’s frustrating, painful, and—let’s be honest—fucking annoying. But with the right support, you can break the cycle and feel confident in your intimacy again.
💬 Have UTIs impacted your sex life? Let’s talk in the comments or connect with me on Instagram at @second__base_.
Work With Me
💡 Want to take control of your sexual health? Book a 20-minute complimentary sexology session with me - Here
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Always a pleasure, never a chore.
Jassy (She/Her) — Sexologist, Somatic Practitioner
