Urinary Tract Infections: Causes, Risk Factors, and Myths
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) generally occur when bacteria of the skin near the rectum or vagina spread to the bladder. From avoiding tight underwear to urinating frequently, the Internet is full of proposed ways to decrease your risk of urinary tract infection. Here’s a guide to understanding what’s true and what’s not (and in between). Below, we break down the real causes of UTIs, highlight proven risk factors, and debunk common myths.
General Concepts on UTIs You Should Know
1. Your Overall Health Plays a Huge Role
Like many types of illness, the strength of your immune system and your overall health are crucial to avoiding infection. Things that weaken your immune system (such as diabetes, obesity, stress, and other chronic illnesses) make you more susceptible to UTIs. Maintaining good general health is one of the most important things you can do. Our Health & Wellness Programs are designed to improve your overall immunity through guided plans and support.
2. Some Risk Factors Are Out of Your Control
Scientific studies have shown that bacteria stick to specific receptors in your urinary tract. Some individuals naturally have more of these receptors, meaning they’re more prone to infections. Also, aging weakens the immune system, further increasing your susceptibility.
3. Hydration & Regular Bathroom Visits Help
In general, it is a good idea to keep your urinary tract flushed with water. So, make sure you drink enough water and make enough trips to the bathroom. This can help rid the urinary tract of bacteria before it becomes an infection.
What’s True? What’s Proven to Increase UTI Risk
Here is a list of risk factors that have been shown to be associated with increased risk for UTI in high-quality research studies.
1. Sexual activity.
Sexual activity appears to be one of the most notable risk factors for UTI, especially in younger women. Although sexual intercourse is the highest risk activity, oral sex and masturbation also increase risk.
2. Use of Diaphragm for Birth Control
Using a diaphragm is another well-documented risk factor. It may interfere with the bladder’s ability to empty fully, encouraging bacterial growth.
3. Urination After Sex Helps Prevent UTIs
This decreases the risk of UTI. Contrary to some myths, urinating after sex reduces your UTI risk by helping to flush out any bacteria introduced during intercourse.
What’s not true? What Doesn’t Increase UTI Risk (According to Research)
Because poor hygiene and excessive moisture promote bacterial growth in general, many related items have been proposed as risk factors for UTI. This is a list of several risks that have been shown in study NOT to increase risk of UTI. However, just because these things have not been scientifically shown to increase risk does not mean they should be forgotten. Good hygiene is an important part of health maintenance!
1. Urination before sex
2. Use of vaginal deodorants
3. Washing type (bath versus shower)
4. Number of baths or showers per day
5. Bubble baths
6. Use of tampons
7. Use of spermicide
8. Use of birth control (oral contraceptive pills)
Still Have Questions about UTIs?
Is there something you believe causes UTIs that wasn’t listed here? We’re always looking to expand our content based on your needs. 📩 Contact us at [email protected] or leave a comment on one of our latest health blogs, and we’ll dive deeper for you.
Also, see our blogs about UTI prevention to learn about treatments used to prevent recurrent UTIs!
Note: The items on these lists have been looked at in a good-quality study. See our blog ‘Understanding the Strength of a Study’ to learn more about this!
