Causes Of A Urinary Tract Infection

Wiping The Wrong Way

How someone wipes can affect whether or not they get a UTI. Wiping the wrong way, which means back to front, can bring bacteria like E. coli from the rectum and fecal matter into the urethra. E. coli, which lives in the intestines, is one of the most common causes of urinary tract infections. Women are already more likely to develop UTIs than men because their urethras are closer to the anus, and women also have shorter urethras than men, which makes it easier for bacteria to travel into the bladder once they reach the opening of the urethra. The correct way to wipe is from front to back, even after peeing but especially after a bowel movement.

Intercourse

Intercourse is a common trigger for urinary tract infections in women as it introduces bacteria into the urinary tract. During sex, bacteria from the genitals and anus come into contact with the urethra. This allows bacteria to enter the bladder, urethra, and even the kidneys and result in an infection. About eighty percent of women with a UTI have had sex within the last day. Frequent sex with one or multiple partners, sex with a new partner, and an increased number of sex partners all increase this risk.

However, preventing a urinary tract infection doesn't need to mean abstinence. There are several ways to lower the risk of getting a UTI from sex. Washing up before sex can reduce the bacteria on the genitals of both partners. Peeing before and right afterward can help flush out bacteria that enter the urinary tract. Avoiding the use of spermicide or a diaphragm as birth control may also reduce this risk.