Precautions when you have sex
During intercourse your genital area will always be introduced to bacteria – either from yourself or from your partner. Follow these tips for before, during and after sex to limit the amount of bacteria:
Before sex:
You should always empty your bladder first. A full bladder contributes to the condition for bacteria to settle in the bladder begin to grow. Wash your genital area or shower to wash away bacteria.
During sex:
You may want to keep a water-soluble gel (lubricant) on hand to help decrease friction and stress on the tissue in the genital area, which may contribute to a urinary tract infection (UTI).Consider the type of birth control you may want to use.
The use of diaphragms and spermicides can sometimes cause irritation in the genital area, which may also promote UTIs.
For people who have frequent urinary tract infections related to sexual activity, speak to your healthcare provider about another form of birth control.
After sex:
Empty your bladder immediately after having sex, even though there is only a small amount of urine in your bladder to flush out potential bacteria. Drink 2-3 glasses of water and urinate when you have the urge to do so. The goal is to have a good steady stream of urine to wash any bacteria from the bladder.