UTIs are uncomfortable, inconvenient — and surprisingly common, especially for women. And if you’ve ever noticed symptoms like burning or frequent urination after sex, you might be wondering if there’s a connection.

The short answer is yes. Sex can increase the risk of UTIs, but the good news is there are simple ways to protect yourself.

We asked an expert to explain why UTIs happen after sex — and how to prevent them.

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What is a UTI?

A urinary tract infection happens when harmful bacteria enter your urinary tract and cause an infection. Most of the time, these bacteria come from the large intestine and are found in stool. The bacteria can travel to your urinary tract through the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine from your bladder to the outside of your body.

If you have a UTI, you might notice symptoms like:

  • A painful or burning sensation when urinating
  • Needing to pee more often, or feeling an urgent need to go
  • Blood in your urine

“Women are more likely to get UTIs because they have a shorter urethra than men,” says Jean Wong, MD, a urologist at the Tallwood Urology & Kidney Institute.

> Related: Can Cranberry Juice Prevent UTIs?

How does sex contribute to UTIs?

While sexual activity doesn’t directly cause UTIs, it can increase your risk.

“The bacteria that normally live in your intestines can make their way into the urethra and bladder more easily during sex — whether it’s vaginal intercourse, oral sex, or even the use of toys or fingers,” explains Dr. Wong.

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How to prevent a UTI after sex.

The good news is there are simple steps you can take to lower your risk:

  • Urinate before and after sex: This helps flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urinary tract.
  • Avoid cross-contamination: If you engage in anal sex, make sure to clean up before switching to vaginal sex to prevent bacteria from spreading.
  • Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out bacteria from your system.
  • Take a daily probiotic: Probiotics can help maintain healthy bacteria in your gut and urinary tract.
  • Practice good genital hygiene: Keeping the genital area clean helps reduce the risk of bacteria buildup.
  • Wipe front to back: This reduces the risk of transferring bacteria from the anus to the urethra.

Can a UTI go away on its own?

If you notice symptoms of a UTI, it’s important to see a doctor. In some cases, UTIs can go away on their own, but it’s always better to be cautious, especially if you see blood in your urine or experience persistent pain.

UTIs are typically treated with a short course of antibiotics, so it’s important to get treatment early to avoid complications.