The urinary system includes the the kidneys, the ureters,the bladder.and the urethra. A urinary tract infection, commonly known as UTI , is an infection that affects any part of the outlined system. Bladder infections affect the lower urinary tract, i.e., the urethra and bladder, and are more common in females. It used to be called “honeymoon cystits” because women would get it after having too much sexual intercourse!

Though the urinary system keeps bacteria and other microscopic invaders at bay, sometimes your defense system may not be watertight, and UTIs occur. This can be for many reasons but especially after intercourse, if you are dehydrated, if you hold your urine for too long, poor hygiene, if you have different urinary anatomy or if your vaginal tissues are dry.

UTIs can be irritating and painful, and where untreated they can spread to the kidneys and cause a complicated situation.

You can help prevent UTIs by drinking plenty of water, urinating immediately after sex, wiping from front to back, and doing away with products that can irritate the urethra. Contact your doctor if you are having these symptoms.