For those with a vagina, there’s truly nothing more annoying than waking up with a surprise UTI (urinary tract infection). Peeing is suddenly annoying, your body is uncomfortable and now you’ve got to down endless amounts of cranberry juice and antibiotics. It’s every female’s most dreaded rite of passage.
But if you’re in your celibate era and find yourself suffering with a UTI, you may find yourself asking, “How did I get a UTI without being active?” Let’s debunk all the UTI myths and get to the bottom of what actually happens in the body.
What Is a UTI?
A urinary tract infection, known as a UTI, is caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract and multiplying. While we’d automatically assume this would only happen during intercourse, there are a few ways you could find yourself at risk of a UTI. These include:
- Using specific types of birth control
- Having a weakened immune system
- Using a catheter
- Simply being female and having a history of UTIs
When suffering with a UTI, you’ll experience a frequent and incessant urge to pee, though little will come out and it will typically be accompanied with a burning sensation. The urine could also be cloudy or strong smelling.
Luckily, UTIs are not life-threatening and actually super common. Millions suffer with them every year, and it’s likely that you’ll get more than one in your lifetime.
Can You Get a UTI Without Being “Active”?
While many think it’s impossible to get a UTI without intercourse as a precursor, this isn’t always the case. “Extracurricular” activity certainly ups your chances of infection, but it isn’t the only looming threat.
So how do you get a UTI without being active? There are a few factors to consider, such as bacteria from the anus entering the urethra, using diaphragms as a form of birth control or simply entering menopause.
The most common type of bacteria that causes UTIs is E. coli, which is found in the digestive system. This is why it’s imperative to be very intentional when cleaning from front to back after using the bathroom.
How To Treat and Prevent a UTI
If you’re already dealing with the UTI, find solace in knowing that while annoying, they aren’t too difficult to treat. Typically, your healthcare provider will prescribe antibiotics to rid the infection, and there are plenty of at-home remedies you can implement to accompany treatment. This includes avoiding caffeine and alcohol, instead staying hydrated with water, cranberry juice and detox teas.
When it comes to avoiding infection, there are a few lifestyle habits you can implement to keep your body resilient. Peeing after intercourse, staying hydrated, wearing cotton underwear, wiping from front to back and avoiding irritating feminine products can do wonders to lower your chances of getting a UTI.
Don’t Stress Out
Some are prone to incessant UTIs, while others may live the same lifestyle and never experience one. It all varies case by case, and whether or not you’re active, having a bladder means that you’re at risk. Live preventively and don’t stress out if you’ve already come down with one! With some intentional care, you’ll be back to yourself in no time.