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:
  • 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:
  • 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.
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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 your urinary health journey, Uqora is here for you. We're so glad you've found us!

— Jenna Ryan, Uqora Co-founder

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Urinary Health Support from Multiple Angles

Complete Regimen 3 Parts Complete Regimen 3 Parts

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. 

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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.
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We recommend Flush because you want better urinary tract health.

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Try risk free with our 60 day money back guarantee!

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We recommend Defend because you said urinary tract health affects you 3+ times a year. Defend cleanses biofilm, which helps to keep the urinary tract clear on a day-to-day basis. It also supports bladder wall integrity.

(Psst, we really recommend you also try Flush (our drink mix) to flush your urinary tract in addition to Defend since you’re frequently affected by urinary tract health. Find that bundle here.)

Try risk free with our 60 day money back guarantee! 

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Promote is formulated with clinically studied ingredients, including lactoferrin and two strains of “good” lactic acid-producing bacteria. These ingredients work together to support a balanced vaginal microbiome. Plus, Promote helps maintain a healthy vaginal pH with a fast-acting formula that reduces itching and discharge in as little as 15 days, providing lasting benefits throughout the month. †

(Psst, if you also struggle with urinary health issues, we recommend trying Flush, our drink mix, which is essential for ongoing urinary health support.)

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Uqora Complete Regimen, Pink Lemonade Flavored Flush, Defend, and Promote

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We recommend our Complete Regimen — 3 products intentionally designed to provide our maximum support.

✔️️Flush is a drink mix that proactively flushes the urinary tract.

✔️️Defend cleanses biofilm, according to mechanism research, and supports bladder wall integrity, which is key for day-to-day urinary tract health. †

✔️Promote is a vaginal probiotic blend with clinically studied ingredients to support your vaginal health.  †

Each product has a distinct function and supports you in a different way, keeping you covered from multiple angles.

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We recommend In Control Bladder Support to help maintain healthy bladder function.

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Flush, because you want better urinary tract health.

Flush is a drink mix that flushes the urinary tract. Drink Flush every 3 days and immediately after sex, if sexually active.

Defend, because you said urinary tract health affects you 3+ times a year.

Defend supports bladder wall integrity and continually cleanses biofilm, which is key for day-to-day urinary tract health. Take two capsules a day.

Try risk free with our 60 day money back guarantee! 

We recommend:

Box of packets that reads 'Uqora Pink Lemonade Flush' and a bottle of pills that reads 'Promote Vaginal Probiotic'

Flush & Promote

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Flush, because you want better urinary tract health.

Flush is a drink mix that flushes the urinary tract. Drink Flush every 3 days and immediately after sex, if sexually active.

Promote, because sex and hormonal changes (especially menopause) affect your vaginal microbiome, and can impact urinary tract health.

Promote is a vaginal probiotic formulated with clinically studied ingredients. These ingredients work together to support a balanced vaginal microbiome—which is key, since vaginal health and urinary health is tightly linked. †

(Psst, we really recommend you try Defend in addition to Promote & Flush since you want better urinary tract health. Defend cleanses biofilm, which helps to keep the urinary tract clear on a day-to-day basis. Find that bundle here.)

Try risk free with our 60 day money back guarantee!

We recommend:

A clear plastic jar with pills and a 'Uqora Defend' label, and a plastic pill bottle with a 'Uqora Promote' label

Defend & Promote

Starts at $41.99
4447 reviews
VIEW PRODUCT

Defend, because you said urinary tract health affects you 3+ times a year.

Defend cleanses biofilm, according to mechanism research, and supports bladder wall integrity, which is key for day-to-day urinary tract health. †

Promote, because you want to support your vaginal health. † 

Promote is a vaginal probiotic formulated with clinically studied ingredients. These ingredients work together to support a balanced vaginal microbiome—a key component of urinary tract health. †

(Psst, we really recommend you try Flush to flush your urinary tract in addition to Promote & Defend since you’re frequently affected by urinary tract health. Find that bundle here.)

Try risk free with our 60 day money back guarantee!

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

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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.

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    Dr. Alyssa Dweck, MS & MD, FACOG, MSCP

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