Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are often discussed in relation to women, but they can affect men too. This leads many to wonder whether UTIs can be passed between sexual partners, especially from a woman to a man. With so much misinformation online, it’s important to get the facts right.
What is a UTI?
A UTI is an infection that affects any part of your urinary system, including the bladder, urethra, or kidneys. Most UTIs are caused by bacteria, especially Escherichia coli (E. coli), which normally lives in the digestive tract.
Although women are more likely to get UTIs due to a shorter urethra, men are not immune. Infections in men are often linked to other health issues, such as an enlarged prostate or kidney stones.
Can a woman pass a UTI to a man?
The short answer is: not directly. UTIs are not officially classified as sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, sexual contact can play a role in transferring bacteria from one person to another.
When a man has vaginal intercourse with a woman who has a UTI, bacteria from the woman’s urinary tract may come into contact with the man’s urethra. This can increase the risk of infection, especially if there are already contributing factors like poor hygiene or a weakened immune system.
How does transmission happen?
The risk increases when there is unprotected sex, prolonged friction, or lack of urination after intercourse. These factors make it easier for bacteria to travel into the urethra.
Although the UTI bacteria do not get transferred like in the case of a virus, the male partner may pick up the same bacteria, which can then grow and cause an infection.
Men who are not circumcised may also face a slightly higher risk, as bacteria can collect under the foreskin if hygiene is not properly maintained.
Can oral or anal sex lead to UTI in men?
Yes, both forms of sex can increase the chances of a UTI in men, particularly if proper precautions are not taken. Oral sex can introduce mouth bacteria to the genital area, while anal sex can expose the urethra to intestinal bacteria such as E. coli.
Cleaning the genital area before and after sexual activity and avoiding switching from anal to vaginal intercourse without proper hygiene helps reduce the risk.
Are UTIs contagious?
Technically, UTIs are not considered contagious. You will not catch a UTI by touching a toilet seat or from casual contact. However, the bacteria that cause UTIs can spread in intimate settings if personal hygiene is overlooked.
While you cannot catch a UTI in the same way you would a cold or flu, certain habits can expose your partner to the same bacteria, especially during sex.
What are the symptoms of a UTI in men?
Men often experience different symptoms compared to women. Common signs include:
- Pain or burning when urinating
- Frequent urge to urinate, especially at night
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Blood in urine
- Pain in the lower abdomen or back
- Fever or chills (if the infection reaches the kidneys)
How can men reduce their risk of getting a UTI?
Simple habits can make a big difference in preventing a UTI. These include:
- Urinating after sex to flush out bacteria
- Keeping the genital area clean and dry
- Staying hydrated to keep urine flowing
- Avoiding strong soaps or products that irritate the area
- Wearing loose, breathable underwear
- Maintaining good hygiene during and after sex
Should couples stop having sex if one has a UTI?
If one partner has a UTI, it’s best to pause sexual activity until the infection has been treated. Sex can worsen symptoms and delay healing.
It can also create an opportunity for bacteria to spread between partners. Taking a break, using antibiotics as prescribed, and practising good hygiene can help ensure both partners stay healthy.
If infections are happening frequently, both partners may need to review hygiene habits, sexual routines, and underlying health conditions.
What treatment options are available?
If a man is diagnosed with a UTI, a doctor will usually prescribe antibiotics based on the specific bacteria found in a urine test. It’s important to finish the full course of medication, even if symptoms improve early.
Pain relief may also be given to help with discomfort. Drinking plenty of water and avoiding irritants such as caffeine or alcohol can help the healing process.
Follow-up appointments may be required if symptoms persist or return shortly after treatment.
Can untreated UTIs lead to complications?
Yes. If left untreated, a UTI can spread to the kidneys or even enter the bloodstream, causing serious health problems. In men, untreated infections can also lead to inflammation of the prostate, which is harder to treat.
That’s why it’s important not to ignore early warning signs. Quick treatment can stop the infection from spreading and reduce long-term damage.
Do men and women get treated differently?
The basic treatment approach is antibiotics. However, men may need a longer course of treatment or additional tests to rule out other causes.
A GP may suggest further screening, especially if UTIs are frequent or accompanied by other symptoms like discharge, high fever, or difficulty urinating.
Take control of your health
Understanding how UTIs work, and how they may be passed during intimacy, helps you take better control of your health. While UTIs are not sexually transmitted in the traditional sense, the risk of exposure between partners is real.
With simple preventative steps, good hygiene, and open communication, you can protect yourself and your partner. If you’re in doubt or experiencing symptoms, speak to a healthcare provider.
You might like this guide: Why Do UTI Symptoms Come & Go?