If you're getting UTIs after sex, you're not alone

We're Uqora — the urinary tract health experts and we've got the facts below.

If you're getting UTIs after sex, you're not alone

We're Uqora — the urinary tract health experts and we've got the facts below.

It is common to develop UTIs following sexual intercourse. However, there are certain steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of developing a urinary tract infection after sex, including post-sex urination (urinating after sex), lubrication, proper hydration, good hygiene, and promoting proactive urogenital health.(1)

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that can affect your urethra, bladder, kidneys, and ureters. Although UTIs can affect several parts of the urinary system, they are most commonly the result of an infection within the bladder. There are many reasons UTIs can occur, but sex is a common trigger for many females.

Why Do I Get UTIs After Sex?

A UTI develops following the introduction of bacteria into the urethra, after bacteria enters through the urethra – bacteria travel up the urinary tract and cause an infection.

For females, the urethra is located in close proximity to the genitals and anus, so it can be easy for bacteria to enter the urethra during sex. However, it’s important to note that UTIs are not sexually transmitted diseases, so they can not be transferred from one person to another.

This is why peeing after sex is important. Urinating is our first line of defense to flush out any bacteria that may have been introduced to the urinary tract after sex. So, failing to urinate after sex may allow more time for any introduced bacteria to multiply and cause an infection(2). Additionally, holding urine for long periods of time(3), especially following sex, can increase the risk of infection.

Are Females More Likely Than Males to Get a UTI From Sex?

Yes, females are more likely than males to get a UTI after sex. Males are still susceptible to developing UTIs from intercourse, but anatomical differences between the sexes make women more prone to infections. In fact, during reproductive years, females are 50 times more likely than males to have a urinary tract infection.(4)

Here are a few reasons why females more prone to post-sex UTIs:

  1. Shorter urethra: Females have shorter urethras than males, meaning bacteria have a shorter distance to travel to reach the bladder.

  2. Proximity of urethra to anus: The female urethra is close to the vagina opening and anus, making bacterial contact from these areas more likely.

  3. Hormonal factors: During the menstrual cycle or pregnancy, hormonal changes can potentially alter the environment of the vaginal microbiome, which can impact the urinary tract and can lead to a higher susceptibility to infection.

Are There Other Reasons UTIs Can Develop?

While sexual activity can result in urinary tract health issues, there are numerous other factors unrelated to sex that can contribute to UTIs. It’s important to remember that although these things can lead to UTI susceptibility, it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. Some of us are just more prone to UTIs than others, even when it feels like we’re doing everything right.

Here are some other common UTI causes:

causes of UTIs

  • Bacterial entry: Bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) can enter the urethra following poor hygiene practices including wiping from back to front after using the toilet.
  • Urinary stagnation: If you don’t empty the bladder completely, you may create a stagnant pool of urine that’s conducive to bacterial growth.
  • Catheter use: Using urinary catheters can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, increasing the risk of infection.
  • Suppressed immune system: Certain medical conditions or medications can weaken the immune system, subsequently making individuals more susceptible to infections.
  • Certain birth control: Some birth control methods like diaphragms and spermicides, can alter bacterial balance in the vagina, increasing the risk of UTIs.
  • Previous UTIs: Individuals with a history of UTIs may experience a higher likelihood of future infections, particularly if they develop antibiotic resistance.

Can I Avoid Getting a UTI After Sex?

Being proactive about urinary health is key. There is no foolproof way to avoid UTIs after sex, but practicing the following habits may help reduce the risk of urinary health problems following intercourse:

Reduce the risk of a post-sex uti

  • Pee before and after sex: Emptying your bladder both before and after sex helps flush out bacteria. It is especially important to pee after sex to help flush out bacteria that may have entered the urethra during sexual activity.
  • Practice healthy hygiene: Wash the genital area using mild, fragrance-free soap. Keeping yourself clean after sex can help reduce the risk of bacterial infections. Make sure to avoid harsh products that may disrupt the natural balance of bacteria.
  • Use lubrication: Using lube during sex can help reduce irritation and friction. Choose lubricants wisely by opting for water-based or silicone-based lube which are typically less likely to cause irritation.

  • Stay hydrated: Proper hydration is associated with a plethora of health benefits, including promoting urinary tract health.

Sex is the most common trigger for UTIs

Millions of women struggle with chronic UTIs caused by sex. In fact, Uqora was created by a chronic UTI sufferer who kept getting UTIs after sex. This experience inspired her to start Uqora. Today, Uqora makes over-the-counter UTI relief products (if you have a UTI) and three unique supplements that will help you stay proactive about urinary tract health.

If you're getting UTIs after sex, you're not alone

We're Uqora — the urinary tract health experts and we've got the facts below.

It is common to develop UTIs following sexual intercourse. However, there are certain steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of developing a urinary tract infection after sex, including post-sex urination (urinating after sex), lubrication, proper hydration, good hygiene, and promoting proactive urogenital health.(1)

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that can affect your urethra, bladder, kidneys, and ureters. Although UTIs can affect several parts of the urinary system, they are most commonly the result of an infection within the bladder. There are many reasons UTIs can occur, but sex is a common trigger for many females.

Why Do I Get UTIs After Sex?

A UTI develops following the introduction of bacteria into the urethra, after bacteria enters through the urethra – bacteria travel up the urinary tract and cause an infection.

For females, the urethra is located in close proximity to the genitals and anus, so it can be easy for bacteria to enter the urethra during sex. However, it’s important to note that UTIs are not sexually transmitted diseases, so they can not be transferred from one person to another.

This is why peeing after sex is important. Urinating is our first line of defense to flush out any bacteria that may have been introduced to the urinary tract after sex. So, failing to urinate after sex may allow more time for any introduced bacteria to multiply and cause an infection(2). Additionally, holding urine for long periods of time(3), especially following sex, can increase the risk of infection.

Are Females More Likely Than Males to Get a UTI From Sex?

Yes, females are more likely than males to get a UTI after sex. Males are still susceptible to developing UTIs from intercourse, but anatomical differences between the sexes make women more prone to infections. In fact, during reproductive years, females are 50 times more likely than males to have a urinary tract infection.(4)

Here are a few reasons why females more prone to post-sex UTIs:

  1. Shorter urethra: Females have shorter urethras than males, meaning bacteria have a shorter distance to travel to reach the bladder.

  2. Proximity of urethra to anus: The female urethra is close to the vagina opening and anus, making bacterial contact from these areas more likely.

  3. Hormonal factors: During the menstrual cycle or pregnancy, hormonal changes can potentially alter the environment of the vaginal microbiome, which can impact the urinary tract and can lead to a higher susceptibility to infection.

Are There Other Reasons UTIs Can Develop?

While sexual activity can result in urinary tract health issues, there are numerous other factors unrelated to sex that can contribute to UTIs. It’s important to remember that although these things can lead to UTI susceptibility, it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. Some of us are just more prone to UTIs than others, even when it feels like we’re doing everything right.

Here are some other common UTI causes:

causes of UTIs

  • Bacterial entry: Bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) can enter the urethra following poor hygiene practices including wiping from back to front after using the toilet.

  • Urinary stagnation: If you don’t empty the bladder completely, you may create a stagnant pool of urine that’s conducive to bacterial growth.

  • Catheter use: Using urinary catheters can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, increasing the risk of infection.

  • Suppressed immune system: Certain medical conditions or medications can weaken the immune system, subsequently making individuals more susceptible to infections.

  • Certain birth control: Some birth control methods like diaphragms and spermicides, can alter bacterial balance in the vagina, increasing the risk of UTIs.

  • Previous UTIs: Individuals with a history of UTIs may experience a higher likelihood of future infections, particularly if they develop antibiotic resistance.

Can I Avoid Getting a UTI After Sex?

Being proactive about urinary health is key. There is no foolproof way to avoid UTIs after sex, but practicing the following habits may help reduce the risk of urinary health problems following intercourse:

Reduce the risk of a post-sex uti

  • Pee before and after sex: Emptying your bladder both before and after sex helps flush out bacteria. It is especially important to pee after sex to help flush out bacteria that may have entered the urethra during sexual activity.

  • Practice healthy hygiene: Wash the genital area using mild, fragrance-free soap. Keeping yourself clean after sex can help reduce the risk of bacterial infections. Make sure to avoid harsh products that may disrupt the natural balance of bacteria.

  • Use lubrication: Using lube during sex can help reduce irritation and friction. Choose lubricants wisely by opting for water-based or silicone-based lube which are typically less likely to cause irritation.

  • Stay hydrated: Proper hydration is associated with a plethora of health benefits, including promoting urinary tract health.

Sex is the most common trigger for UTIs

Millions of women struggle with chronic UTIs caused by sex. In fact, Uqora was created by a chronic UTI sufferer who kept getting UTIs after sex. This experience inspired her to start Uqora. Today, Uqora makes over-the-counter UTI relief products (if you have a UTI) and three unique supplements that will help you stay proactive about urinary tract health.

You've tried cranberry — now try something that works

You’re not alone. We're helping over 200,000 people of all ages stay healthy with our proactive urinary tract products.

It is common to develop UTIs following sexual intercourse. However, there are certain steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of developing a urinary tract infection after sex, including post-sex urination (urinating after sex), lubrication, proper hydration, good hygiene, and promoting proactive urogenital health.(1)

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that can affect your urethra, bladder, kidneys, and ureters. Although UTIs can affect several parts of the urinary system, they are most commonly the result of an infection within the bladder. There are many reasons UTIs can occur, but sex is a common trigger for many females.

Why Do I Get UTIs After Sex?

A UTI develops following the introduction of bacteria into the urethra, after bacteria enters through the urethra – bacteria travel up the urinary tract and cause an infection.

For females, the urethra is located in close proximity to the genitals and anus, so it can be easy for bacteria to enter the urethra during sex. However, it’s important to note that UTIs are not sexually transmitted diseases, so they can not be transferred from one person to another.

This is why peeing after sex is important. Urinating is our first line of defense to flush out any bacteria that may have been introduced to the urinary tract after sex. So, failing to urinate after sex may allow more time for any introduced bacteria to multiply and cause an infection(2). Additionally, holding urine for long periods of time(3), especially following sex, can increase the risk of infection.

Are Females More Likely Than Males to Get a UTI From Sex?

Yes, females are more likely than males to get a UTI after sex. Males are still susceptible to developing UTIs from intercourse, but anatomical differences between the sexes make women more prone to infections. In fact, during reproductive years, females are 50 times more likely than males to have a urinary tract infection.(4)

Here are a few reasons why females more prone to post-sex UTIs:

    1. Shorter urethra: Females have shorter urethras than males, meaning bacteria have a shorter distance to travel to reach the bladder.

    2. Proximity of urethra to anus: The female urethra is close to the vagina opening and anus, making bacterial contact from these areas more likely.

    3. Hormonal factors: During the menstrual cycle or pregnancy, hormonal changes can potentially alter the environment of the vaginal microbiome, which can impact the urinary tract and can lead to a higher susceptibility to infection.

Are There Other Reasons UTIs Can Develop?

While sexual activity can result in urinary tract health issues, there are numerous other factors unrelated to sex that can contribute to UTIs. It’s important to remember that although these things can lead to UTI susceptibility, it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. Some of us are just more prone to UTIs than others, even when it feels like we’re doing everything right.

Here are some other common UTI causes:

causes of UTIs

    • Bacterial entry: Bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) can enter the urethra following poor hygiene practices including wiping from back to front after using the toilet.

    • Urinary stagnation: If you don’t empty the bladder completely, you may create a stagnant pool of urine that’s conducive to bacterial growth.

    • Catheter use: Using urinary catheters can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, increasing the risk of infection.

    • Suppressed immune system: Certain medical conditions or medications can weaken the immune system, subsequently making individuals more susceptible to infections.

    • Certain birth control: Some birth control methods like diaphragms and spermicides, can alter bacterial balance in the vagina, increasing the risk of UTIs.

    • Previous UTIs: Individuals with a history of UTIs may experience a higher likelihood of future infections, particularly if they develop antibiotic resistance.

Can I Avoid Getting a UTI After Sex?

Being proactive about urinary health is key. There is no foolproof way to avoid UTIs after sex, but practicing the following habits may help reduce the risk of urinary health problems following intercourse:

Reduce the risk of a post-sex uti

    • Pee before and after sex: Emptying your bladder both before and after sex helps flush out bacteria. It is especially important to pee after sex to help flush out bacteria that may have entered the urethra during sexual activity.

    • Practice healthy hygiene: Wash the genital area using mild, fragrance-free soap. Keeping yourself clean after sex can help reduce the risk of bacterial infections. Make sure to avoid harsh products that may disrupt the natural balance of bacteria.

    • Use lubrication: Using lube during sex can help reduce irritation and friction. Choose lubricants wisely by opting for water-based or silicone-based lube which are typically less likely to cause irritation.

    • Stay hydrated: Proper hydration is associated with a plethora of health benefits, including promoting urinary tract health.

My experience with UTI inspired me ot start Uqora

In 2016 I had 8 UTIs. I was miserable and desperate for a way to get ahead, but was repeatedly told there was little I could do. This experience inspired me to start Uqora. Built in collaboration with doctors & scientists, Uqora makes UTI relief products and proactive urinary tract supplements so you can finally get ahead. No matter where you are on your urinary health journey, Uqora is here for you! We're so glad you've found us!

— Jenna Ryan, Uqora Co-founder

Our best-selling products:
proactive urinary tract health supplements

Each product in our Complete Regimen supports your urinary tract in a different way, keeping you covered from all angles.

The ingredients in Uqora have been well-researched and were each selected for their unique ability to improve urinary tract health.  

My experience with UTIs inspired me to start Uqora

In 2016 I had 8 UTIs. I was miserable and desperate for a way to get ahead, but was repeatedly told there was little I could do. This experience inspired me to start Uqora. Built in collaboration with doctors & scientists, Uqora makes UTI relief products and proactive urinary tract supplements so you can finally get ahead. No matter where you are on you're urinary health journey, Uqora is here for you. We're so glad you've found us!

— Jenna Ryan, Uqora Co-founder

Urinary Health Support From All Angles

Urinary Health Support from Angles

Uqora's line of proactive supplements contains science-backed ingredients, including D-Mannose, to keep you healthy. The ingredients in Uqora have been well-researched and were each selected for their unique ability to improve urinary tract health. Each of our products supports you in a different way, keeping your urinary tract covered from multiple angles. 

My experience with UTIs inspired me to start Uqora

In 2016 I had 8 UTIs. I was miserable and desperate for a way to get ahead, but was repeatedly told there was little I could do. This experience inspired me to start Uqora. Built in collaboration with doctors & scientists, Uqora makes UTI relief products and proactive urinary tract supplements so you can finally get ahead. No matter where you are on you're urinary health journey, Uqora is here for you. We're so glad you've found us!

— Jenna Ryan, Uqora Co-founder

Urinary Health Support From All Angles

You've tried cranberry — now try something that works

You’re not alone. We're helping over 400,000 people of all ages stay healthy with our proactive urinary tract products.

You've tried cranberry — now try something that works

You’re not alone. We're helping over 400,000 people of all ages stay healthy with our proactive urinary tract products.

Our refund policy

Have a UTI Now?

Your well being is our #1 priority. If Uqora doesn’t work for you, we’ll give you your money back.

And we promise our customer success team will make it easy. We pride ourselves on having a responsive, caring team full of real people ready to answer all your questions and help in any way.

With our UTI Emergency Kit you can test if you have a UTI, quickly relieve pain and burning, and control the infection until you can see a medical professional. We always keep one on hand!

UTIs happen. Are you prepared?

Have a UTI Now?

Our UTI Emergency Kit has everything you need until you can see a doctor. With this 3-in-1 bundle you can test if you have a UTI, quickly relieve pain and burning, and control the infection.

With our UTI Emergency Kit you can test if you have a UTI, quickly relieve pain and burning, and control the infection until you can see a medical professional. We always keep one on hand!

I had 8 UTIs in one year - a note from our founder

“I was stuck in the cycle of UTIs for years. I was desperate for a way to get ahead, but was told there was little I could do. This inspired my husband and I to start Uqora, alongside doctors & scientists. Now, we’ve been able to help over 200,000 people and counting. Ready to give us a try?”

Our refund policy

Have a UTI Now?

Your well being is our #1 priority. If Uqora doesn’t work for you, we’ll give you your money back.

And we promise our customer success team will make it easy. We pride ourselves on having a responsive, caring team full of real people ready to answer all your questions and help in any way.

With our UTI Emergency Kit you can test if you have a UTI, quickly relieve pain and burning, and control the infection until you can see a medical professional. We always keep one on hand!

Our refund policy

Our refund policy

Your well being is our #1 priority. If Uqora doesn’t work for you, we’ll give you your money back.

And we promise our customer success team will make it easy. We pride ourselves on having a responsive, caring team full of real people ready to answer all your questions and help in any way.

Your well being is our #1 priority. If Uqora doesn’t work for you, we’ll give you your money back.
And we promise our customer success team will make it easy. We pride ourselves on having a responsive, caring team full of real people ready to answer all your questions and help in any way.

UTIs happen. Are you prepared?

Have a UTI Now?

Our UTI Emergency Kit has everything you need until you can see a doctor. With this 3-in-1 bundle you can test if you have a UTI, quickly relieve pain and burning, and control the infection.

With our UTI Emergency Kit you can test if you have a UTI, quickly relieve pain and burning, and control the infection until you can see a medical professional. We always keep one on hand!

Have a UTI Now?

UTIs happen. Are you prepared?

Get the UTI Emergency Kit. You can test if you have a UTI, quickly relieve pain and burning, and control the infection until you can see a medical professional.

Our UTI Emergency Kit has everything you need until you can see a doctor. With this 3-in-1 bundle you can test if you have a UTI, quickly relieve pain and burning, and control the infection.

Trusted by doctors and scientists who believe in being proactive

Dr. Katherine Klos, Urologist

Dr. Payal Bhandari, Functional Medicine M.D.

Dr. Susan Mitmesser, Scientist at Pharmavite


Uqora promises

💸

Money-back guarantee

👋

Support team that cares

🔬

Science-backed ingredients

Trusted by doctors and scientists who believe in being proactive

Uqora Promises

💸

Money-back guarantee

👋

Support team that cares

🔬

Science-backed ingredients

Keep scrolling to hear what our community has to say

Below is a place for our customers to share stories. We stay out of it! These reviews are unfiltered and uncurated. You can also access these by clicking 'reviews' in the menu.

Uqora's dietary supplement products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. Results may vary.

Trusted by doctors and scientists who believe in being proactive

Our refund policy

Your well being is our #1 priority. If Uqora doesn’t work for you, we’ll give you your money back.

And we promise our customer success team will make it easy. We pride ourselves on having a responsive, caring team full of real people ready to answer all your questions and help in any way.

Uqora promises

💸 Money-back guarantee

👋 Support team that cares

🔬Science-backed ingredients

Keep scrolling to hear what our community has to say

Below is a place for our customers to share stories. We stay out of it! These reviews are unfiltered and uncurated. You can also access these by clicking 'reviews' in the menu.

Uqora's dietary supplement products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. Results may vary.

Keep scrolling to hear what our community has to say

Below is a place for our customers to share stories. We stay out of it! These reviews are unfiltered and uncurated. You can also access these by clicking 'reviews' in the menu.

Uqora's dietary supplement products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. Results may vary.

References

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Urinary Tract Infection. https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/uti.html

  2. Bono MJ, Leslie SW, Reygaert WC. Urinary Tract Infection. [Updated 2022 Nov 28]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470195/

  3. Jagtap, S., Harikumar, S., Vinayagamoorthy, V., Mukhopadhyay, S., & Dongre, A. (2022). Comprehensive assessment of holding urine as a behavioral risk factor for UTI in women and reasons for delayed voiding. BMC infectious diseases, 22(1), 521. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12879-022-07501-4

  4. https://www.nytimes.com/2019/07/13/health/urinary-infections-drug-resistant.html