Urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria multiply in the bladder, urethra, or kidneys. In most cases, it is recommended to avoid sexual intercourse during UTI treatment. Friction can further irritate the urinary tract and hinder recovery. Find out more.
Are you wondering, can a man with a urinary tract infection have sex? The general recommendation is to wait until the end of treatment before resuming sexual activity. Treatment may last up to 14 days. This rest period is important for the urinary system to fully recover. Learn more.
What Is Male Urinary Tract Infection?
A male urinary tract infection happens when bacteria enter the bladder, urethra, or kidneys — the organs of the urinary system.
The issue is more common at age 50 due to prostate problems, such as enlargement or infections of the gland.
Other causes include not drinking enough water, holding in urine for too long, poor hygiene, unprotected sex, and improper or prolonged use of a catheter.
Symptoms of Male Urinary Tract Infection
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary depending on the affected organ, but they generally include:
- Weaker urine stream;
- Frequent urge to urinate;
- Burning sensation at the start or end of urination;
- Cloudy urine or a strong odor;
- Blood in the urine (more common in individuals taking anticoagulants or platelet medications);
- Nausea;
- General discomfort;
- Lower back pain;
- Low-grade fever.
How Do Men Get a Urinary Tract Infection?
Men with benign prostatic hyperplasia are more prone to UTIs.
This enlargement of the prostate gland, caused by reduced levels of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone, makes it difficult to completely empty the bladder, creating an environment conducive to bacterial growth.
Additionally, the transmission of a urinary tract infection can occur for several reasons. Check them out:
- Dehydration;
- Going too long without urinating;
- Neglecting daily intimate hygiene;
- Wearing the same underwear multiple times;
- Excess foreskin, the skin covering the glans, which can increase UTI risk if the glans cannot be fully exposed for proper cleaning;
- Friction during unprotected sexual intercourse can irritate the genitals; moreover, bacteria can travel up the urethra, the channel that leads urine out of the body;
- Kidney stones;
- Using a catheter for an extended period without proper hygiene can weaken the urinary tract and accounts for up to 35% of urinary tract infection cases.
After All, Can a Man with a Urinary Tract Infection Have Sex?
It is advisable for a man with a urinary tract infection to avoid sexual intercourse until treatment is complete.
This is because friction can further weaken the urinary system. The guidance is to wait until symptoms subside and the treatment is finished.
Can a Man with a Urinary Tract Infection Have Sex Using a Condom?
A man with a urinary tract infection should generally refrain from having sex, even with a condom.
Even when using protection, the discomfort caused by UTI symptoms can make sexual activity uncomfortable or potentially harmful during treatment. Therefore, if you have a urinary infection, follow your treatment plan diligently and rest so you can return to your activities safely.
How Does a Urinary Tract Infection Spread?
A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria enter and multiply in the urinary tract. The most common forms of transmission include:
- Not showering daily or neglecting intimate hygiene after sex;
- Not using protection, especially during anal sex, since bacteria can enter the urethra;
- Health conditions, such as an enlarged prostate or diabetes, that facilitate bacterial entry;
- Prolonged and improper catheter use or handling.
How Long After a UTI Can a Man Have Sex?
The time it takes for a man to resume sexual activity depends on the severity of the UTI and how well the treatment works. Therefore, it’s impossible to say exactly how long you should wait before becoming intimate again.
Recommended Treatments for a Urinary Tract Infection
Treatment generally involves antibiotics, chosen based on the type of infection and the patient’s clinical profile.
Additionally, analgesics, antispasmodics (to relieve pain and urgency), and antiseptics (to ease burning during urination) are often prescribed.
The length of treatment varies from 5 to 7 days, and can go up to 14 days if the infection reaches the kidneys.
Here are some of the medications commonly used to treat urinary tract infections:
- Antibiotics: fosfomycin, nitrofurantoin, ciprofloxacin, sulfamethoxazole + trimethoprim, cephalexin;
- Analgesics: phenazopyridine;
- Antispasmodics: scopolamine, hyoscyamine hydrobromide, flavoxate, methylene chloride.
How to Prevent a Urinary Tract Infection in Men
Now that you know the symptoms of a male urinary tract infection, discover some tips on preventing UTIs:
- Drink plenty of water;
- Avoid long periods without urinating;
- Empty your bladder completely;
- Wash your penis daily with water and mild soap;
- Wear cotton underwear and change it every day;
- Practice safe sex;
- Post-intercourse care: urinate and shower;
- Regular urological check-ups.
The impact on sexual life is just one aspect of a urinary tract infection. If you feel any discomfort while urinating, schedule a preliminary evaluation with Dr. Paulo Egydio and learn how UTIs can affect your health.
